Phase IV of dense solid hydrogen has been identified by its infrared spectrum using high-pressure synchrotron radiation techniques. The spectrum exhibits a sharp vibron band at higher frequency and lower intensity than that for phase III, indicating the stability of molecular ${\mathrm{H}}_2$ with decreased intermolecular interactions and charge transfer between molecules. A low-frequency vibron having a strong negative pressure shift indicative of strongly interacting molecules is also observed. The character of the spectrum is consistent with an anisotropic, mixed layer structure related to those recently predicted theoretically. Phase IV was found to be stable from 220 GPa (300 K) to at least 340 GPa (near 200 K), with the I-III-IV triple point located. Infrared transmission observed to the lowest photon energies measured places constraints on the electronic properties of the phase.

• Received 24 December 2012

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.110.217402