High pressure probes of electronic structure and luminescence properties of transition metal and lanthanide systems

Recent work has demonstrated that unique insight into the electronic struct ure and optical properties of solid state transition metal and lanthanide s ystems is achievable through high pressure studies. In this review we prese nt selected examples that illustrate the advances in understanding possible from high pressure luminescence experiments. The ability of pressure to co ntinuously vary energy level structure and coordination environment is emph asized and related to variations in luminescence properties. Pressure is sh own to influence luminescence properties through crystal field, covalency, and spin-orbit coupling effects. The effect of pressure on luminescence ene rgy, intensity, and decay properties will be considered. Additional phenome na to be discussed include electronic crossovers, vibrational coupling, adm iring of electronic states, energy transfer and site selective spectroscopy . High pressure luminescence properties of transition metal and lanthanide ions in crystalline solids, metal complexes, and glasses will be reviewed.