Chapter 001: What is C60, also called Buckminsterfullerene?
Fullerene C60, also known as Buckminsterfullerene, is a unique molecule made up of 60 carbon atoms arranged in a spherical shape, resembling a soccer ball.
THE DETAILS:
Discovery and History
- Discovery: C60 was first discovered in 1985 by scientists Harold Kroto, James Heath, Sean O'Brien, Richard Smalley, and Robert Curl
- Nobel Prize: The discovery of C60 earned the 1996 Nobel Prize in Chemistry
Structure and Properties
- Shape: C60 has a structure like a soccer ball, with 12 pentagonal and 20 hexagonal faces
- Stability: It is stable at high temperatures and pressures
- Solubility: C60 is soluble in organic solvents but insoluble in water
- Color: Solutions of pure C60 have a deep purple color, when used in solvents such as oils. Pharmzandia Corporation has a unique patented process to make the fullerenes soluble in water, called Fullerenols.
Applications
- Nanotechnology: Used in the creation of nanomaterials and devices
- Electronics: Employed in superconductors and semiconductors
- Medicine: Potential applications in drug delivery systems and as an antioxidant
- Energy: Used in the development of more efficient solar cells and fuel cells
Health Benefits
-Antioxidant Properties: C60 has strong antioxidant properties, which may help reduce oxidative stress and combat aging
- Potential Anti-Aging Effects: Some studies suggest that C60 can extend lifespan by reducing age-related oxidative stress
- Safety: Research is still ongoing, but C60 supplements are generally considered safe for humans and animals
Research and Future Prospects
- Ongoing Studies: Research into the health effects of C60 is still in the early stages, with most studies conducted on cells or animals
- Potential Uses: C60 is being explored for various applications in materials science, biomedical science, and energy
To learn more about the exciting world of nanotechnology and C60, please come back regularly to learn something new about our current research projects!
References:
https://byjus.com/chemistry/buckminsterfullerene/?
https://medicinalherbals.net/c60-fullerene/?
https://medicinalherbals.net/c60
https://www.ossila.com/pages/water-soluble-fullerenes
https://www.healthline.com/health/carbon-60-health-effects?e
https://www.healthline.com/health/carbon-60-health-effects?copilot_analytics_metadata=