Allotropy and Allotropes of Carbon - Crystalline Allotropes of Carbon: Fullerene

Fullerene is an allotrope of carbon that is rarely found in nature, existing in soot and interstellar space. The first discovered fullerene, Buckminsterfullerene (C60), was named after architect Richard Buckminster Fuller due to its resemblance to the geodesic dome he designed. The discovery of fullerene C60 by Harold Kroto, Robert Curl, and Richard Smalley earned them the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1996. Fullerenes, including C60, C70, and others, exhibit unique molecular structures and properties.

Buckytubes (Carbon nanotubes)

Structure of fullerene

• Fullerenes exist in the form of hollow spheres (buckyballs) or tubes (buckytubes).
• A fullerene molecule can contain between 30 to 900 carbon atoms, depending on its type.
• Buckminsterfullerene (C60) is the most well-known example, resembling a soccer ball in structure.
• Fullerenes are soluble in organic solvents such as carbon disulphide and chlorobenzene.
• They are lightweight and possess excellent thermal and chemical stability.
• Fullerenes exhibit unique electrical and optical properties, making them useful in nanotechnology and materials science.
• They are used in drug delivery systems, as they can trap and transport molecules within their structure.
• Fullerenes have potential applications in superconductors, solar cells, and lubricants due to their structural and chemical properties.

1. Fullerenes are used as insulators due to their unique molecular structure.
2. They act as catalysts in water purification systems, helping to remove impurities.
3. Fullerenes exhibit superconductivity at certain temperatures, making them valuable in advanced technologies.
4. They are used in drug delivery systems, as they can encapsulate and transport molecules to targeted areas.
5. Fullerenes are applied in the development of solar cells to improve energy efficiency.
6. They are used in the production of lubricants due to their spherical molecular structure, reducing friction.
7. Fullerenes are utilised in nanotechnology for creating advanced materials and devices.
8. They are employed in the development of antioxidants, as fullerenes can neutralise free radicals.
9. Fullerenes have applications in sensors due to their ability to interact with different chemical and physical environments.