The principal objective of this exploratory research program is to develop a new approach for the study of geologically important amorphous materials such as glasses. The methodology involves a combination of high-pressure diamond anvil techniques and site selective laser spectroscopy. The study will utilize synthetic analogues of common silicates and aluminosilicates that are doped with low concentrations of probe ions such as Cr3+ or Eu3+. The resultant data will be used to elucidate the pressure-induced changes in the local coordination environment of these ions and to study the structural mechanisms of high-pressure amorphization. Results of the research may ultimately find application in elucidating the chemical and physical behavior of silicate melts within the Earth's interior.
