Fullerenes
| Formula / Notation | C₆₀ (buckminsterfullerene); C₇₀, C₈₄; sp² carbon cage structures |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Buckminsterfullerene, buckyballs, C₆₀, carbon cage molecules |
What is Fullerenes?
Allotropes of carbon consisting of spherical, ellipsoidal, or cylindrical molecules made of carbon atoms arranged in pentagons and hexagons. Buckminsterfullerene (C₆₀, buckyball) was the first fullerene discovered. Carbon nanotubes are cylindrical fullerenes with exceptional properties.
Formula & Notation
Other Names / Synonyms: Buckminsterfullerene, buckyballs, C₆₀, carbon cage molecules
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Allotropes of carbon consisting of spherical, ellipsoidal, or cylindrical molecules made of carbon atoms arranged in pentagons and hexagons. Buckminsterfullerene (C₆₀, buckyball) was the first fullerene discovered. Carbon nanotubes are cylindrical fullerenes with exceptional properties.
Fullerenes are used in: organic photovoltaics (C₆₀ derivatives as electron acceptors), antioxidant research (radical scavenging), HIV protease inhibitor design (C₆₀ fits the active site), lubricants (molecular ball-bearing effect), MRI contrast agents (endohedral Gd@C₈₂), and nanomedicine (drug deli…
Fullerene nanoparticles are under active toxicological investigation. C₆₀ generates reactive oxygen species under UV irradiation, potentially causing cell damage. Inhalation of fine fullerene powders may cause pulmonary inflammation; nano-specific risk assessment is required. Handle as a potentially…
The formula or notation for Fullerenes is: C₆₀ (buckminsterfullerene); C₇₀, C₈₄; sp² carbon cage structures