A series of new generation bismuth and boron addition complexes of C₆₀, prepared through high temperature solid state reactions

Abstract

Synthesis of a series of bismuth and oxyboron addition complexes of fullerene through solid-state reaction between C₆₀ and a (zinc, bismuth) borate glass at 650-700°C under argon atmosphere is reported here. Depending on the reaction conditions, different complexes are formed in different proportions which remain encased in the matrix of the glass imparting different colours to the composite. By controlling the reaction conditions, two composite glasses, one of green colour and the other of red colour have been obtained. Relatively better stability of these complexes enabled us to extract at least, the relatively low molecular weight species of these complexes of the composites by eluting the latter with toluene. The complexes are characterized by UV-Vis-NIR absorption, mass and IR studies. It is observed that the bismuth ions of the glass add directly to the C₆₀ cage, while borate ions, like osmate ions, add through oxygen. The composite glasses exhibit good non-linear optical properties and enhanced electrical conductivity showing a possibility of their use in different device

applications.