Unveiling the Enigma of Matter under Extreme Conditions: From Planetary Cores to Functional Materials

Pressure, as one of the fundamental thermodynamic parameters, can profoundly change the interatomic distances, electronic interactions, chemical bonding and crystal structures, leading to exotic structures and properties of materials. High-pressure techniques have significantly impacted disciplines like physics, chemistry, geology, and life science, creating new materials, advancing knowledge of Earth's interior, and influencing pharmaceutical development. This editorial reviews the latest research published in this Collection, highlighting the potential of high-pressure studies to further our understanding of materials’ behavior under extreme conditions.