Abstract
Single fullerene cages are generated by irradiating different carbon specimens with electrons in an electron microscope. The process is non-thermal and slow and hence accessible to direct observation. Under irradiation, lattice planes unwind from graphitic particles, bend and close by forming irregular cages which shrink and undulate until fullerene-like spherical cages are left. These prove to be stable under intense irradiation in contrast to C 60 molecules within fullerite crystals. A mechanism based on sputtering and exchange of atoms by collisions with electrons from the beam is proposed to explain the formation and stability of fullerene molecules on graphitic surfaces.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
