In order to probe the changes in the valence state and magnetic properties of Eu metal under extreme pressure, x-ray absorption near-edge spectroscopy, x-ray magnetic circular dichroism and synchrotron Mossbauer spectroscopy experiments have been carried out. The Mossbauer isomer shift exhibits an anomalous pressure dependence, passing through a maximum near 20 GPa. Density functional theory has been applied to give insight into the pressure-induced changes in both Eus electronic structure and Mossbauer isomer shift. Contrary to previous reports, Eu is found to remain nearly divalent to the highest pressures reached (87 GPa) with magnetic order persisting to at least 50 GPa. These results should lead to a better understanding of the nature of the superconducting state found above 75 GPa and of the sequence of structural phase transitions observed to 92 GPa.
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