The COMPRES/GSECARS gas-loading system for diamond anvil cells at the Advanced Photon Source

We have designed and constructed a new system for loading gases at high pressure into diamond anvil cells at pressures up to 200 MPa. The gases are used either as quasi-hydrostatic pressure media surrounding the sample or as the sample itself. The diamond cell is sealed using a clamping mechanism, which permits nearly any type of diamond anvil cell to be used. Online ruby fluorescence and video imaging systems allow in situ monitoring of the pressure and gasket deformation as the cell is sealed, resulting in a very high success rate in loading cells. The system includes interlocks and computer control that allow it to be safely and easily operated by visiting users at the Advanced Photon Source. We present preliminary X-ray diffraction data on volume compression of single-crystal magnesium oxide (MgO) in helium up to 110 GPa.