Scientists at Tsukuba University have discovered a new form of diamond that is harder than natural diamonds and lighter than graphite. Diamonds are essential for various industrial applications due to their density and stability. Researchers have been searching for ways to create even harder artificial diamonds, and they have now introduced the Pentadiamond in Physical Review Letters. The team used a computer simulation to explore the combination possibilities of carbon atoms with different bonding states. The Pentadiamond has a three-dimensional lattice structure, with carbon atoms alternating between four and three bonds. It has a higher pressure and shear strength than natural diamonds, with a maximum pressure of 1,700 gigapascals and a maximum shear force of 1,163 gigapascals. Despite its high strength, the material is relatively light and has a density lower than that of graphite.
The Pentadiamond’s lattice structure also has an unusual property that causes it to expand when pulled apart, making it thicker. The researchers believe that this new diamond could have practical applications, such as being used as a cutting material, diamond stamp, or stable gas storage due to its porosity. The Pentadiamond’s electrical characteristics are similar to those of a semiconductor. Although the diamond currently exists only as a simulation, its developers believe that it can be easily produced using conventional copolymer synthesis methods from hydrocarbons.
In conclusion, the Pentadiamond is a new form of diamond that is harder than natural diamonds and lighter than graphite. Its lattice structure has an unusual property that causes it to expand when pulled apart, making it thicker. The Pentadiamond has practical applications, such as being used as a cutting material, diamond stamp, or stable gas storage due to its porosity. Its electrical characteristics are similar to those of a semiconductor, and it can be easily produced using conventional copolymer synthesis methods from hydrocarbons.
