ALSS: Apparatus for the loading of sublimable systems

A system for the loading of sublimable systems at 0 °C into a versatile membrane/screw-actuated symmetric diamond anvil cell (DAC) has been developed. This system, known as the Apparatus for the Loading of Sublimable Systems (ALSS), has the unique incorporation of an internal membrane, which acts against the clamping force of the screws. Through the inflation/deflation of the internal membrane, it is possible to open and close the cell under a pressurized environment without the need to maintain pressure differentials and/or high-pressure mechanical feedthroughs. Here, we present an overview of ALSS and its application in loading sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆) and carbon dioxide (CO₂), including the first infrared absorption measurements of SF₆ up to 50 GPa.