Mass spectrometry and fullerenes
1Chemistry Division/Code 6113, Naval Research Laboratory, 20375-5000, Washington DC.
Journal of the American Society for Mass Spectrometry
|November 19, 2013
Summary
Mass spectrometry was key to discovering fullerenes, like C60 buckminsterfullerene. This technique remains vital for studying these unique carbon allotropes and their derivatives.
Area of Science:
- Chemistry
- Materials Science
- Physics
Background:
- Gas-phase carbon cluster research historically relied on mass spectrometry.
- Early mass spectrometric experiments provided evidence for specific carbon cluster sizes, including C60.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a historical overview of mass spectrometry's role in fullerene discovery.
- To discuss recent mass spectrometric analyses of fullerene derivatives and doped fullerenes.
- To highlight mass spectrometry's ongoing importance in fullerene research.
Main Methods:
- Historical review of mass spectrometry experiments on carbon clusters.
- Analysis of mass spectrometric data for fullerene derivatives and doped fullerenes.
- Characterization of fullerene properties using mass spectrometry.
Main Results:
- Mass spectrometry provided crucial evidence for "magic number" carbon clusters, notably C60 (buckminsterfullerene).
- These findings led to the postulation and confirmation of the fullerene structure.
- Mass spectrometry is essential for understanding fullerene properties and developing new materials.
Conclusions:
- Mass spectrometry was instrumental in the discovery and characterization of fullerenes.
- Current mass spectrometric techniques are vital for advancing fullerene science and applications.
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