Fullerenes

Extract

Although C₆₀ and other such molecules had been predicted earlier on the basis of theoretical considerations, the identification of these molecules by mass spectrometry in the year 1985 is an important landmark. The discovery of a ready method of preparation by arc evaporation of graphite in 1990 gave a big boost to this area of research. Today, research on carbon has undergone a renaissance and the new carbon molecules and structures probably constitute the second greatest sensation in physical science since the 1986 discovery of high-temperature super-conductivity in cuprates.

These fascinating cage molecules of carbon, containing 6- and 5-membered rings, with considerable pi electron density, exhibit interesting chemical as well as materials properties. The phase transitionh of fullerenes and the electronic properties of the derivatives of C₆₀ are indeed interesting. And, as if this were not enough, many other novel carbon structures have recently been discovered. Nanotubes are a major discovery. Closed on either end, nanotubes can be opened by mild oxidation at the reactive site at the closed end and can be filled with metals. Carbon onions made of concentric giant fullerenes constitute another interesting form of carbon. The onions have also been stuffed with metals and metal carbides. Clearly, carbon research has many surprises in store, with promising applications. It is only appropriate that the MRS Bulletin has dedicated a special issue to the new carbon structures and we are happy to serve as guest editors, presenting a wide variety of topics that convey the flavor of this fascinating field. We begin with a personal account of Buckminsterfullerene by co-guest editor Harry Kroto.