In a groundbreaking development, scientists in Korea have created a new process to produce artificial diamonds using liquid metal at high temperatures and low pressure. This method could revolutionize the synthetic diamond industry, as it can produce diamonds in just 150 minutes at a temperature of 1,025 degrees Celsius without requiring extreme pressure.
Research conducted by scientists at the Korean Institute of Basic Sciences, published in the journal Nature on April 24, highlights the potential of this new method. By mixing liquid metals like gallium, iron, nickel, and silicon, the team was able to significantly reduce the pressure required to grow diamonds.
The process involves dissolving carbon into liquid metal and allowing carbon atoms from methane to penetrate the molten metal and act as diamond “seeds.” After just 15 minutes, small pieces of diamond crystals protrude from the surface, and after 150 minutes, a continuous diamond film is formed. The team hopes to further improve the process and explore its potential in combination with other liquid metals for even better results.
While still in its early stages, this new method shows promise for revolutionizing synthetic diamond production. By reducing pressure requirements and enhancing the process, scientists hope to make significant advancements in the field.
