Spectral characteristics of an atmospheric-pressure arc discharge during the synthesis of fullerene derivatives

Abstract

The electron concentration and temperature are measured when elements having various ionization potentials are introduced into the carbon-helium plasma that forms in a high-frequency atmospheric-pressure arc discharge. The effect of the introduced elements on the relative fullerene content in a carbon condensate is also studied. The plasma parameters are determined by in situ emission spectral analysis during the synthesis of fullerene derivatives with scandium, sodium, and silicon. The variation of the atomic and molecular line intensities of the plasma radiation with the distance from the carbon-arc axis is investigated upon the introduction of various doping substances. The optimal temperature conditions for the synthesis of fullerene derivatives with Sc, Na, and Si are found.