High stability of Ba₃(ZnB₅O₁₀)PO₄ under pressures

Ba3(ZnB5O10)PO4 (BZBP) stands out as a unique nonlinear optical material, notably as the only one devoid of Beryllium (Be), and it maintains transparency across an extensive range of wavelengths—from thousands of nanometers to the deep-ultraviolet (DUV) region. This distinctive characteristic positions BZBP as a highly promising material for constructing a pivotal component in systems capable of generating DUV lasers. Earlier investigations have highlighted key attributes of BZBP, such as low anisotropic thermal expansion, high specific heat, and superior thermal conductivity, affirming its suitability for DUV laser generation. However, these studies were limited to ambient pressures. Before advancing its practical applications, a comprehensive understanding of BZBP's behavior under both ambient and extreme conditions is imperative. In the current study, BZBP underwent high-pressure conditions, and synchrotron X-ray diffraction was employed to scrutinize its physical properties. X-ray patterns collected at various pressure points, reaching up to 43 GPa, revealed the material's stability without undergoing any phase transformation. The investigation further entailed the determination of its bulk modulus (110 GPa) and linear compressibility along each lattice axis. Additionally, we elucidated the changes in bonding lengths relative to varying pressures, providing valuable insights into BZBP's behavior under high-pressure conditions.