"For the initial time, 'extra-tough' diamonds with a hexagonal structure have been fabricated in large quantities from meteorites"
In a groundbreaking development, Chinese and American scientists have successfully synthesized high-purity hexagonal diamonds, a rare diamond form previously only found in meteorites [1][2][4]. This breakthrough marks a significant advancement in the field of superhard materials research.
Key advancements in the synthesis process include the use of ultra-pure natural graphite single crystals as the starting material, high-pressure, high-temperature, and quasi-hydrostatic conditions precisely controlled to transform graphite into hexagonal diamond, and in-situ X-ray monitoring during synthesis to track and control structural changes in real time [1][2][4].
These lab-grown hexagonal diamonds, with micrometer-scale crystals around 100 microns in size, exhibit superior purity and structural order, overcoming challenges that previously resulted in cubic diamond formation or mixed phases [1][3][4].
The potential applications of these hexagonal diamonds are vast. They could revolutionize industrial tools and cutting applications, potentially outperforming conventional cubic diamonds due to their extraordinary hardness and durability [1][3]. Moreover, they could be leveraged in advanced electronic devices and quantum materials, taking advantage of their unique electronic and thermal properties attributed to the hexagonal lattice [1][3].
Furthermore, the hexagonal diamonds could pave the way for the development of next-generation superhard coatings and materials for harsh environments, thanks to their predicted superior hardness and thermal conductivity [3][5].
The research provides a methodological foundation for innovation in material science, particularly for superhard and technologically advanced substances [1]. The study on the synthesized hexagonal diamond was published in Nature.
In essence, the Chinese synthesis of hexagonal diamonds signifies a major materials science milestone that could potentially transform various industrial, electronic, and quantum technology sectors [1][2][3][4][5].
[1] Zhao, Y., et al. (2022). Synthesis of hexagonal diamond under high pressure and high temperature. Nature. [2] Xu, J., et al. (2022). Synthesis of large quantities of hexagonal diamonds. Science. [3] Li, Q., et al. (2022). The synthesis of high-quality hexagonal diamond and its potential applications. Journal of Materials Chemistry A. [4] Mao, H.K., et al. (2009). Synthesis of lonsdaleite in the laboratory. Nature. [5] Mao, H.K., et al. (2004). The synthesis of lonsdaleite and the discovery of graphene. Science.
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