Carbon Rod for Fullerene Synthesis

Abstract

Many kinds of pure carbon and metal/carbon composite rods for fullerene synthesis have been prepared. Preparation and topics concerning these carbon rods are reviewed. Yield of empty fullerenes such as C₆₀ and C₇₀ is not influenced by either texture or by structure of carbon rod, however, high vaporization rate is observed for less graphitized one in arc discharge method. Existence of cα. 0.1mass% impurities in the pure carbon rod does not decrease fullerene yield, however, it is suggested that a small amount of some specific element may affect fullerene synthesis. Fullerenes with higher molecular weights are selectively synthesized by using boron/carbon composite rods (boronated graphite).To increase yield of endohedral metallofullerenes, elimination of water from the composite rod is very important, and high temperature-treatment of the rod such as 2000°C is found to be very effective.