X-ray diffraction studies of mineral phase transitions under dynamic loading

Dynamic compression studies are crucial for understanding the high-pressure phases of deep planetary interiors and shock metamorphism resulting from impact events on planetary

surfaces. Facilities that integrate shock and ramp compression drives with diagnostics for X- ray diffraction and velocimetry provide a means to explore the crystal structures and examine

the melting of dynamically compressed planetary materials at high pressures on nanosecond timescales. This talk will summarize recent findings from the Linac Coherent Light Source, the Omega Laser Facility, and the Dynamic Compression Sector, focusing on key crustal, mantle, and core materials, including silicates and iron alloys. These findings offer new constraints on crystal structures, melting behavior, and kinetics under extreme conditions, with implications for understanding planetary processes.