Phase transitions of MnO to 137 GPa

An in situ x-ray study up to 137 GPa using a diamond anvil cell combined with synchrotron x-ray radiation has revealed three new phase transitions in MnO. The rhombohedral distortion from a B1 structure starts at about 30 GPa. The volume compression curve of the distorted phase is in good agreement with recent shock compression experiments, suggesting the possibility of a paramagnetic–antiferromagnetic transition associated with the increase of the Néel temperature (TN). A drastic change in the x-ray pattern was observed at about 90 and 120 GPa. The transition pressure of 90 GPa is also consistent with shock compression data. The phases above 90 GPa were expected to be metallic based on the highly reflective nature of the sample. The crystal structure of the high pressure phase above 120 GPa was successfully explained by a B8 (NiAs) structure as expected based on recent first principles calculations.