Quantum chemical modeling of molecules under pressure

Abstract

Pressure can be used to initiate a plethora of intriguing transformations and chemical reactions. During the past 10 years or so, several quantum chemical methods have been developed that describe the structural and electronic changes in molecules under pressure. This perspective focuses on three of these methods: the extreme pressure polarizable continuum model, the generalized force-modified potential energy surface, and the hydrostatic compression force field approach. The theoretical background of each method is discussed, and several interesting applications are reviewed. The challenges that the field faces, as well as possible routes for future developments, are pointed out.