PhD project: f-electron metals at extreme conditions: theory
Project description
The properties of the lanthanide (4f) elements (Ce-Lu) are among the least well explored. Until recently, it had been thought that the mechanical properties and crystal structures were highly dependent on the behaviour of the f-electrons. In particular, there was no good theory for the strange behaviour in which the lanthanides, which adopt close-packed structures at ambient temperature, transform to more open structures at high pressure. Recent experimental work by McMahon's group revealed that the high-pressure structures have for many years been misidentified - so that the ever more complex theories devised to explain them were both unnecessary and incorrect. So far, only gadolinium has been investigated in detail, and it appears the density functional theory provides an adequate explanation. In this project you will investigate the other lanthanides and try to find systematics of the structural arrangements of their high pressure structures across the group.
Project supervisor
- Professor Graeme Ackland (School of Physics & Astronomy, University of Edinburgh)
The project supervisor welcomes informal enquiries about this project.
Find out more about this research area
The links below summarise our research in the area(s) relevant to this project:
- Find out more about Extreme Conditions.
- Find out more about Computational Materials Physics.
- Find out more about the Institute for Condensed Matter and Complex Systems.
What next?
- Find out how to apply for our PhD degrees.
- Find out about fees and funding and studentship opportunities.
- View and complete the application form (on the main University website).
- Find out how to contact us for more information.
More PhD projects
- Browse other Extreme Conditions projects.
- Browse other Computational Materials Physics projects.
- Browse other Institute for Condensed Matter and Complex Systems projects.
- Browse all PhD research opportunities in the School of Physics & Astronomy.
- Browse PhD research opportunities elsewhere in the University of Edinburgh.