(Invited) Endohedral Fullerene Hybrids: From Gold Nanoparticles to Graphene

Abstract

Endohedral fullerenes are at the forefront of nanotechnology due to their rich electronic structure. In this talk I will focus on some examples of endohedral fullerenes used in hybrid nanostructures with other nanomaterials. For example, gold nanoparticles have been found to significantly increase or alternatively quench the photoluminescence of dyes, enhance the Raman scattering of organic molecules and the photocatalytic activity of semiconductors. We have reported for the first time the use of the singlet oxygen sensor green for the evaluation of the generation of singlet oxygen from a series of fullerenes (including endohedral fullerenes) and gold nanoparticle hybrids. The C70 mono adducts appear to be more efficient sensitizers compared to C60 in accordance with previous studies that were based on the 1270 nm emission of the singlet oxygen. Lu3N@C80 had a performance somewhat between the two empty cages. Overall, pyrene derivatives appeared to be efficient photo-sensitizers, especially when coupled with gold nanoparticles, with the 2.24 and 3.48 times increase on the fluorescence intensity.I will also elaborate on how Gd-based metallofullerene (Gd3N@C80) molecules can be used to create single adatoms and nanoclusters on a graphene surface. We have shown that endohedral metallofullerenes can adhere to graphene surfaces at temperatures well above their bulk sublimation point, indicating that the surface bound metallofullerenes have strong adhesion to dangling bonds on graphene surfaces. The ability to create dispersed single Gd adatoms, and Gd nanoclusters on graphene may have impact in spintronics and magnetism.Endohedral metallofullerenes continue to fascinate us with their versatility and attractive electronic properties.