High Pressure Materials Research using Advanced Third-Generation Synchrotron X-ray

The recent discoveries of nonmolecular phases of simple molecular solids [1,2] demonstrate the proof-of-the-principles for producing exotic phases by application of high pressure. Modern advances in theoretical and computational methodologies now make possible to explain or even predict novel structures and properties in a relatively wide range of length scales on the basis of thermodynamic stability [3]. Equally important in materials research is the recent developments in advanced x-ray and laser diagnostics that enable in-situ observations at the formidable pressure-temperature conditions [4]. Having benefited by all these developments, we discuss the first principle of the pressure-induced chemistry, 'Mbar Chemistry', with a few examples that may have important implications in materials research