Specific features of T-C-P diagrams for binary systems of B-elements

Abstract

The possibility of reaching high pressures gave rise to intense studies of the phase state of substances, their structures, and properties depending on a new thermodynamic parameter-pressure. Characterizing the extensive development of these studies, one should distinguish three stages: (i) the study of polymorphism for elements under high pressure, and the construction of T-P diagrams; (ii) the study of polymorphism for compounds; and (iii) the construction of three-dimensional T- C-P diagrams for binary and multicomponent systems. At present, the first stage is almost completed in the pressure range from ∼100 kbar (see Ref. 1) to 1 Mbar. A series of empirical laws have been established that determine the general direction of structural changes for chemical elements with a pressure rise. Thus, for the elements of the B-subgroup of the Periodic Table, the “coordination rule” has been established according to which an increase in pressure produces structural changes in B elements characterized by a higher packing density and coordination number. According to another rule, the so-called homology rule, B-elements under pressure acquire structures typical for their heavier homologues at normal pressure. These rules manifest themselves most clearly for the elements of the IVB subgroup. In a C-Si-Ge-Sn row structure types change with an increase of the coordination number as follows: graphite (3)-diamond (4)-white tin (6). The same sequence is also observed for the elements of the M3 subgroup with a pressure rise: graphite transforms into diamond, and the diamond-like structure of germanium and silicon transforms into the white-tin structure.