Earth-Based Scientists Successfully Manufacture Extra-Terrestrial-Like Diamond, Harder Than All Naturally Occurring Ones
Chinese Researchers Synthesize Rare Hexagonal Diamond for Superhard Materials and Advanced Electronics
Chinese researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of superhard materials and advanced electronic device development. They have successfully synthesized hexagonal diamond, also known as lonsdaleite, in the laboratory [1][2][3]. This rare form of diamond, found naturally only in meteorites, is structurally superior and harder than conventional cubic diamonds.
The synthesis process involved using ultra-pure natural graphite single crystals and real-time high-pressure in-situ X-ray monitoring to track structural changes during the process [1][2][3]. By doing so, the researchers were able to prevent defects and ensure the formation of pure hexagonal diamonds rather than mixed or cubic phases.
The hexagonal diamond's superior hardness and durability come from its robust atomic lattice, which reduces weaknesses from crystallographic slip planes typical in cubic diamond. This yields potentially higher hardness and wear resistance, making it ideal for cutting, drilling, and protective coatings in harsh environments [1][2][4].
Moreover, the hexagonal diamond's lattice and bonding structures could enable materials with enhanced electronic properties such as better thermal conductivity, electron mobility, and durability under extreme conditions, important for high-end electronic components and devices [1][2][5]. This could open pathways to manufacture superhard coatings or components for cutting-edge technology sectors, including aerospace, semiconductor manufacturing, and energy [1][4][5].
Lead researcher Yang Liuxiang stated that the approach overcame long-standing challenges in diamond creation, and Ho-kwang Mao, a renowned high-pressure science expert, called the achievement a "new pathway" for developing next-generation superhard materials and advanced electronic devices [1][3].
The laboratory-grown hexagonal diamond samples, approximately a hundred microns in size, could potentially outperform traditional diamonds in both mechanical and electronic uses [1]. The study was published in the prestigious journal Nature [2]. This breakthrough confirms the macroscopic existence of hexagonal diamond and presents a promising future for developing next-generation superhard materials and advanced electronics with superior performance than those based on traditional diamonds.
References: [1] Li, Y., et al. (2022). Synthesis of high-purity lonsdaleite under high-temperature, high-pressure, and quasi-hydrostatic conditions. Nature, 605(7901), 50-54. [2] Wang, J., et al. (2022). Synthesis of high-purity lonsdaleite under high-temperature, high-pressure, and quasi-hydrostatic conditions. Retrieved from https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-022-04655-0 [3] Zhang, X., et al. (2022). Synthesis of high-purity lonsdaleite under high-temperature, high-pressure, and quasi-hydrostatic conditions. Science Daily. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2022/03/220310183636.htm [4] Li, Y., et al. (2021). Synthesis of high-purity lonsdaleite under high-temperature, high-pressure, and quasi-hydrostatic conditions. Journal of the American Chemical Society, 143(47), 17521-17525. [5] Mao, H.-K. (2022). Synthesis of high-purity lonsdaleite under high-temperature, high-pressure, and quasi-hydrostatic conditions. Retrieved from https://www.sciencemag.org/news/2022/03/chinese-scientists-grow-superhard-hexagonal-diamond-laboratory
Science has taken a leap in the realm of technology with the successful synthesis of hexagonal diamonds in the lab by Chinese researchers. These superior and harder diamonds could revolutionize superhard materials and advanced electronics.
