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Preparation and Characterization of C60/Graphene Hybrid Nanostructures
Published on: May 15, 2018
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Deuteration of C60 on a highly oriented pyrolytic graphite surface
G Pantazidis1, M Scheffler1, F D S Simonsen1
1Department of Physics and Astronomy, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.
Proceedings of the International Astronomical Union. International Astronomical Union
|March 31, 2021
Summary
Deuterium atoms were used to create deuterated fullerenes on graphite surfaces. These deuterated fullerene films showed enhanced thermal stability and formed higher deuterated species, confirmed by scanning tunneling microscopy (STM).
Area of Science:
- Surface science
- Astrochemistry
- Materials science
Background:
- Carbonaceous surfaces are crucial for interstellar medium processes like H2 formation.
- Fullerenes (C60) are important carbon structures with potential roles in space.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the formation of deuterated fullerenes.
- Examine the properties of deuterated C60 on graphite.
Main Methods:
- Adsorption of C60 molecules on highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG).
- Exposure of adsorbed C60 to a deuterium atom beam.
- Scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) for molecular and deuteration analysis.
Main Results:
- Successful deuteration of C60 films was achieved.
- Deuterated C60 films exhibited increased thermal stability compared to pristine C60.
- Evolution towards higher deuterated fullerene species was observed.
Conclusions:
- Deuterated fullerene species can be formed on carbonaceous surfaces.
- Deuteration enhances the thermal stability of C60 films.
- STM confirms the formation and characteristics of deuterated fullerenes.
