DENSIFY - Research project

Extreme conditions (TPa, 105K) leading to extraordinary structural phases can be obtained using micro-explosions generated by focused ultrashort laser pulses in bulk materials. DENSIFY proposes an innovative irradiation design based on dispersion-engineered non-diffractive beams to create and observe new material structures, from high density vitreous phases to crystalline dense-packing in silica materials. Combining ultrafast nonequilibrium and thermomechanical constraints, we target the material change using space-time irradiation design, observation of structural dynamics, characterization of material phases and their mechanical assessment. Quantitative observation techniques are proposed to map in time matter evolution, with potential to identify the transformation drives. Mechanical performance of material forms will be evaluated with nano-mechanical tests and high resolution microscopy. We expect knowledge gain for material behaviors in extreme conditions that serve as marker for high-energy interactions and in developing strategies for material synthesis.