Search for metallization in benzene to 209 GPa pressure

Abstract

It is anticipated that all insulating materials will become metallic under sufficiently high pressure. Insulating compounds containing a high concentration of hydrogen may metalize at lower pressures than pure hydrogen, perhaps exhibiting superconductivity at relatively high temperatures. Recent electronic structure calculations indicate that benzene C6H6 may enter a metallic, molecular state under pressure in the region 180–200 GPa. Optical transmission studies, however, fail to reveal metallic behavior in benzene to 209 GPa at ambient temperature. A partial Raman spectrum of benzene was measured to 43.9 GPa.