Chemistry and materials under extreme conditions

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I propose a significant expansion of my research program in the area of chemistry and materials science under extreme conditions, in particular, at high pressures. Pressure constitutes one of the three fundamental thermodynamic parameters which plays a critical role in regulating the structures and properties of materials. At high pressures, bonding patterns of molecules are significantly altered leading to the formation of new structures and materials. In our laboratory, diamond anvil cells are used to achieve static high pressure conditions and over a broad temperature range. Materials rendered at high pressures will be structurally characterized in situ using various techniques, including vibrational spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and many synchrotron based probes. Armed with these powerful tools, we will be able to carry out a wide range of projects in the new frontier of high-pressure research, such as studies of d-block metal complexes, high-pressure photochemistry and noble gas chemistry. These studies attempt to gain in-depth understanding of the chemical and physical principles of high-pressure effect on materials at the molecular level, utilization of which may lead to new applications. For example, we may be able to use a combination of pressure and morphology as a driving force to tune structures and properties of a variety of nanomaterials to enhance their performance in certain applications, such as chemical sensing. Furthermore, we will develop new materials with desirable properties and novel functionalities, such as hydrogen storage materials and zeolite materials using high-pressure techniques. Overall, our research program will not only contribute to fundamental high-pressure science, but may make significant impact on several global demanding issues, such as the urgent need of new materials and sustainable energy.