Converting Neptune into a diamond planet

This question was inspired by this one, questioning the methods one may use to attach structures to the surface of a diamond world. The idea of a celestial body largely composed of crystal diamond seems to be utterly preposterous, inconceivable, and just plain wrong.

With the known composition of Neptune, at the pressures and temperatures expected in Neptune's inner structure, it is suggested that methane decomposes into diamond crystals which rain down into an ocean of liquid carbon, perhaps forming floating masses of crystal diamond, 'diamondbergs'.

My question is: Given what we know about Neptune's internal structure, could the outer layers of Neptune's atmosphere be stripped away, perhaps over the course of 4 billion years via solar wind erosion, in such a way as to leave behind a crystal diamond saturated body?

Please disregard the fact that no sun of ours is about to strip away likely over 16 Earth masses worth of Neptune in the next 4 billion years. Assume a Neptune-like planet about a star which will do the job in 4 billion years.

My thinking is that even though the diamondbergs and diamond seas are under high temperature and pressure, when the outer layers are removed and the temperature and pressure are decreased, the diamond may solidify and crystallize. 4 billion years is entirely arbitrary, if it can be done quicker, or if it must be done slower, let it be so. Bonus points if one finds another way to turn a Neptune-like world into a diamond planet.

posted almost 6 years ago

B.fox‭

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