Lonsdaleite the Super Diamond
from Intellectually Curious Hosted by Mike Breault
We trace the decades-long mystery of lonsdaleite—the hexagonal carbon believed to form under meteorite impact—and explain how a 2025 computational study established it as a distinct metastable polymorph. Then we dive into the latest lab breakthroughs that forge millimeter-scale hexagonal diamonds at 20 GPa and 1,400°C, reaching hardness up to 155 GPa. Finally, we explore the implications for ultra-durable tools, geothermal drilling, and future materials that could reshape technology. Note: This podcast was AI-generated, and sometimes AI can make mistakes. Please double-check any critical information. Sponsored by Embersilk LLC
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