Pressure-induced noncrystalline phase ofLiKSO4

Abstract
Recent Raman scattering experiments on LiKSO4 from room pressure to 10 GPa suggest three phase transitions in this region. We have performed a high-pressure energy-dispersive x-ray diffraction study of this compound, using a diamond-anvil cell, to pressures of about 15 GPa. We find that not all phase transitions indicated in the Raman study are associated with structural changes. The most interesting feature, however, is exhibited by this compound above 12 GPa. The diffraction peaks diminish in intensity and are replaced by a broad hump indicative of an amorphous phase. On release of pressure, the compound returns to a crystalline phase after several days.