Preparation, Functionalization, and Purification of Multilayer Fullerenes (Buckyonions)

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The focus of this research involves the development of chemical methods for the functionalization of Buckyonions. Extreme oxidative processes and diazonium salt electroreductive production of highly reactive phenyl radicals will be used and size separation of products will be achieved using chromatographic procedures. Subsequent removal of the functional groups should afford size-separated multishell fullerenes for further studies.With this Small Grant for Exploratory Research (SGER) award, the Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry Program is supporting the research of Dr. Luis Echegoyan in the Department of Chemistry at Clemson University. Professor Echegoyan will focus on developing methodology for extending the field of nanomaterials beyond the fullerenes and carbon nanotubes. Concentric spherical carbon structures, known as Buckyonions or multilayered fullerenes, will be prepared, chemically functionalized, purified and characterized. There is potential for broader impact of the work in the area of nanotechnology since these structures should have interesting electronic, optical, photonic and catalytic properties. Also, the project also presents an excellent arena for the training underrepresented minority students.