Evidence Hub

Using X-ray free electron lasers to explore extreme states under quasi-static compression

Husband RJ, McWilliams RS, Frost M, Konôpková Z

Nature communications, 2026

Abstract

The exceptional brilliance of X-ray free electron lasers (XFELs) combined with quasi-static compression in diamond anvil cells (DACs) has enabled novel time-resolved methods for probing extreme states of matter. Coupling serial X-ray techniques with dynamic drivers for rapidly changing pressure and temperature, these studies offer insight into phase equilibria, chemical reaction kinetics, and geophysical processes. Here, we present the current state-of-the-art XFEL techniques used for DAC research, including serial X-ray heating, pulsed laser heating, and rapid compression. Essential questions for future investigation are also highlighted, regarding the interactions of intense X-rays with samples at high pressure and associated non-equilibrium states.

Read the paper

Related studies

Go deeper in Evidence Hub

Evidence Hub adds a study data sheet (design, sample size, evidence level, key numbers), an AI summary and a chat grounded in the paper's text.

Open this study Sign up free