The switchable phase transition of sodium sulfate crystals activated by shock waves

Abstract

To date, according to the available sources obtained from a literature survey, shock-wave-induced switchable phase transitions are yet to be understood concretely as compared to irreversible phase transitions, which is probably due to a lack of understanding regarding the relationship existing between the crystal structure and shock pressure. In the present study, the switchable phase transition of sodium sulfate crystals has been formulated and demonstrated under shock conditions, and the observed switchable sequence of phase transitions is phase-V–V–III–V–V when the number of shock pulses is 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. The above-mentioned switchable phase transition is categorically proven using diffraction, spectroscopic, and microscopic techniques, and the title material is suggested for use in switching molecules and sensor applications due to its higher shock sensitivity.