Laser-driven shock experiments on precompressed water: Implications for "icy" giant planets

J Chem Phys. 2006 Jul 7;125(1):014701. doi: 10.1063/1.2207618.

Abstract

Laser-driven shock compression of samples precompressed to 1 GPa produces high-pressure-temperature conditions inducing two significant changes in the optical properties of water: the onset of opacity followed by enhanced reflectivity in the initially transparent water. The onset of reflectivity at infrared wavelengths can be interpreted as a semiconductor<-->electronic conductor transition in water, and is found at pressures above approximately 130 GPa for single-shocked samples precompressed to 1 GPa. Our results indicate that conductivity in the deep interior of "icy" giant planets is greater than realized previously because of an additional contribution from electrons.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.