LIght-Matter INeraction under EXtreme conditions - new research frontier at IELS-FORTH

ongoing

The exploration of light-matter interactions under extreme conditions represents an excellent opportunity for innovation in material science and technology. At IESL-FORTH, I propose establishing a new research branch dedicated to integrating high-pressure technology with existing optical experimental approaches. This initiative seeks to enhance the institute's research capabilities creating a foundation for future investigations, leveraging my extensive background in high-pressure physics, as well as my experience in managing large-scale research projects. To achieve this, a research initiative focused on a comprehensive study of the piezochromic and optical properties of pyrylium salts under extreme conditions is suggested. While pyrylium dyes have been known for over a century, the piezochromic behavior of 2,4,6-triphenylpyrylium tetrachloroferrate was first discovered in 2024 by a research team led by Dr. Egor Evlyukhin. Given the universal role of the molecular-structure relationship in the photophysical properties of pyrylium salts, it is anticipated that piezochromic behavior and non-linear optical properties may also be found in other pyrylium compounds. At IESL-FORTH, and at European synchrotron facilities such as Elettra (e.g., Xpress beamlines), DESY (e.g., P02.2 beamline), and ESRF (e.g., ID15B, BM23, and ID24 beamlines) the mechanisms of their photophysical properties will be investigated and the series of “intelligent” materials will be offered to a scientific community. The expected outcomes include the establishment of a new scientific direction at IESL-FORTH, which will create new research opportunities for students and young scientists. The project will foster new collaborations between synchrotron and local scientists and contribute to advancements in high-pressure sensing and laser technologies. This work will advance my career by incorporating advanced experimental techniques and building a robust international network across the European Union.