Raman spectroscopy study of REH3 under pressure

The Raman spectroscopic studies of two rare earth trihydrides: YH3, HoH3, have been performed in the pressure range from ambient up to 16 GPa and 25 GPa respectively. For the first time samples of REH3 in the form of powder have been studied by Raman spectroscopy using the Diamond Anvil Cell (DAC) technique. A rapid decrease of Raman activity has been observed for the hydrides under pressure values in the vicinity of structural phase transition. Metallization as a possible reason for the observed dramatic change of the REH3 Raman activity has been discussed. (c) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.