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Updated: Jul 12, 2026

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Computation of Atmospheric Concentrations of Molecular Clusters from ab initio Thermochemistry
Published on: April 8, 2020
Large odd-numbered carbon clusters from fullerene-ozone reactions
Summary
Odd-numbered carbon clusters like C119, C129, and C139 were discovered. These fullerene derivatives suggest a new method for fullerene functionalization via ozone reactions.
Area of Science:
- Chemistry
- Materials Science
Background:
- Fullerenes, such as C60 and C70, are allotropes of carbon with unique cage-like structures.
- Fullerene soot and toluene extracts are common sources for fullerene research.
- Ozone reactions are known to modify carbon structures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the formation and properties of odd-numbered carbon clusters.
- To explore the role of ozone in fullerene reactions.
- To identify potential new pathways for fullerene functionalization.
Main Methods:
- Mass spectrometry analysis of fullerene soot extracts.
- Ozone-fullerene reaction product analysis.
- Characterization of gas-phase ions.
Main Results:
- Observation of odd-numbered carbon clusters: C119, C129, and C139.
- Specific formation pathways identified: C119 from ozone-C60, C139 from ozone-C70, and all three from ozone-(C60/C70) reactions.
- These clusters behave as stable gas-phase ions, analogous to fullerenes, and represent dimers minus one carbon atom.
Conclusions:
- The study reveals a novel route for fullerene derivatization.
- Ozone-catalyzed cage-opening reactions offer a new method for synthesizing functionalized fullerenes.
- The discovery of these odd-numbered clusters expands the known fullerene family and their reactivity.
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