Stage-1 C₆₀-Intercalated Graphene Films

Multi-dimensional “nano-carbon” allotropes can be used as building blocks for constructing unconventional nanostructures with unique physiochemical properties. To date, the most representative and extensively studied members of this family are fullerenes, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphene. They are composed of sp2 hybridized carbon atoms forming conjugated polycyclic structures with different sizes and curvatures. Despite the challenge of precise control over the self-assembly process, a range of novel hybrid materials based on those existing forms of carbon have been developed, including C60-CNT “pea-pods” and “nanobuds”, C60-graphene “sandwich” films, composites made by physical mixing, and covalent hybrids involving stronger intermolecular interactions. In this presentation, I will introduce our latest finding on the experimental realization of an unprecedented stage-1 C60-intercalated graphene film, in micrometer thick and centimeter lateral size, including comprehensive analysis on its structural and chemical characteristics. Such a novel form of carbon nanostructures could open many new research avenues in carbon science and applications.