Large Carbon Clusters with Entrapped Gadolinium Atoms

Abstract

Gadolinium metallofullerenes have long shown promise as potential MRI contrast agents. The ability to entrap up to three gadolinium atoms permits a high concentration of metal content per fullerene cage. The protective carbon cage prevents the escape of otherwise toxic free Gd ion. In this presentation, we will discuss purification strategies to isolate gadolinium clusters entrapped within larger carbon cages (C96-C120). We have recently isolated a series of fullertubes, which consist of a nanotube belt of carbons with fullerene endcaps. It is unknown if the entrapped Gd atoms are inside fullerene or fullertube cages.