Neutron Scattering Series

High-pressure neutron scattering to study plastic phases

Plastic phases — where long-range translational order coexists with rotationally disordered molecular units — serve as model systems for exploring the broader concept of dynamical disordered matter and its potential in energy-relevant applications. Such dynamical disorder plays a pivotal role in defining the structural, thermal, and transport properties of crystalline solids. In this talk, I will present recent advances in probing plastic phases of hydrogen-rich molecular solids using high-pressure and in situ quasi-elastic neutron scattering (QENS). As a case study, I will highlight our recent observation of the first plastic phase of water ice [Rescigno et al., Nature 640, 662–667 (2025)].