[60]Fullerene
[CAS# 99685-96-8]

Identification

• Classification: Chemical reagent >> Organic reagent >> Fullerenes
• Name: [60]Fullerene
• Synonyms: Buckminsterfullerene; (C60-Ih)[5,6]fullerene
• Molecular Formula: C₆₀
• Molecular Weight: 720.64
• CAS Registry Number: 99685-96-8
• EC Number: 628-630-7
• SMILES: C12=C3C4=C5C6=C1C7=C8C9=C1C%10=C%11C(=C29)C3=C2C3=C4C4=C5C5=C9C6=C7C6=C7C8=C1C1=C8C%10=C%10C%11=C2C2=C3C3=C4C4=C5C5=C%11C%12=C(C6=C95)C7=C1C1=C%12C5=C%11C4=C3C3=C5C(=C81)C%10=C23

Properties

• Density: 5.568±0.1 g/cm³, Calc.^*
• Boiling point: 500-600 °C (Sublimes) (Expl.)

^* Calculated using Advanced Chemistry Development (ACD/Labs) Software.

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H315-H319-H335
• Safety Statements: P261-P305+P351+P338

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315

Discovery and Applications

Fullerene, a remarkable class of carbon molecules, was first discovered in 1985 by scientists Robert Curl, Harold Kroto, and Richard Smalley. These molecules, composed entirely of carbon, have a unique structure where the carbon atoms are arranged in a closed, spherical, or ellipsoidal shape, resembling the structure of a soccer ball. This discovery revolutionized the field of chemistry, leading to the development of a new branch of research in nanotechnology and material science. Fullerenes, specifically C60, are commonly referred to as buckyballs, and their distinctive properties have opened up a broad range of applications in various scientific disciplines.

The discovery of fullerene occurred during experiments at the University of Sussex and Rice University, where the researchers were investigating carbon clusters formed under laser ablation conditions. They identified that when carbon vapor was created by a laser, the carbon atoms aggregated into molecules with a highly symmetrical, polyhedral shape. The most common fullerene, C60, consists of 60 carbon atoms arranged in a structure that forms 12 pentagonal and 20 hexagonal faces, resembling a truncated icosahedron. This discovery of fullerenes provided a new form of carbon that is distinct from graphite, diamond, and graphene, adding to the understanding of carbon chemistry.

The structure and properties of fullerenes have led to a wide range of applications across several fields, particularly in materials science, electronics, and medicine. One of the most exciting areas of research surrounding fullerenes is their potential as advanced materials. Due to their hollow structure, fullerenes can encapsulate other molecules, making them suitable for use in drug delivery systems. Researchers have developed methods to load fullerenes with therapeutic compounds, such as anti-cancer drugs, to target specific cells in the body, improving the effectiveness and reducing the side effects of treatment.

Fullerenes are also highly sought after in the field of electronics and photovoltaics. Their ability to conduct electricity, combined with their mechanical flexibility, makes them ideal for use in organic solar cells, organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), and other flexible electronic devices. Fullerenes are particularly useful in organic photovoltaics, where they can act as electron acceptors in the conversion of solar energy into electricity. The development of fullerene-based materials has the potential to contribute significantly to the advancement of renewable energy technologies.

In addition to their use in drug delivery and electronics, fullerenes have shown promise in other industries, such as lubrication and environmental remediation. Fullerenes' unique ability to form stable, low-friction coatings makes them useful in reducing wear and tear in mechanical systems. Additionally, their strong chemical stability and ability to absorb heavy metals and toxic compounds suggest potential uses in environmental cleanup processes, where fullerenes can help remove pollutants from water and soil.

Despite their potential, the use of fullerenes is not without challenges. The synthesis of fullerenes can be expensive, and large-scale production remains a limiting factor for many of their commercial applications. Additionally, the toxicity of fullerenes, particularly in their raw or unmodified form, remains a subject of ongoing research. Studies have indicated that fullerene derivatives may have toxic effects on cells, and further research is needed to understand the long-term safety of fullerene-based products.

In conclusion, the discovery of fullerenes has had a profound impact on several scientific fields, including chemistry, materials science, electronics, and medicine. Their unique structure and properties have made them valuable in a wide range of applications, from drug delivery to energy conversion and environmental cleanup. While challenges remain in their large-scale production and safety, the potential of fullerenes as functional materials continues to drive research and innovation across multiple industries.

References

2007. Radical Reactions of [60]Fullerene Mediated by Manganese(III) Acetate Dihydrate. Journal of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, 7(4).
DOI: 10.1166/jnn.2007.305

2007. Modulation of Structural and Electronic Properties of Fullerene and Metallofullerenes by Surface Chemical Modifications. Journal of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, 7(4).
DOI: 10.1166/jnn.2007.301

2007. Fullerene Containing Polymers: A Review on Their Synthesis and Supramolecular Behavior in Solution. Journal of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, 7(4).
DOI: 10.1166/jnn.2007.456