FULLERENES The Science and Technology of Carbon's Most Versatile Molecule

PrefaceCarbon is unique among the elements because it forms materials with extraordinary and diverse properties, from diamond and graphite to graphene, carbon nanotubes, and fullerenes. Among these, fullerenes stand out as closed molecular cages whose remarkable geometry gives rise to exceptional chemical, electronic, and physical behavior. Since the discovery of buckminsterfullerene (C₆₀) in 1985, fullerene research has grown into a major field spanning chemistry, physics, nanotechnology, energy, electronics, medicine, and quantum science.This book provides a comprehensive yet accessible introduction to fullerene science. It covers their discovery, molecular structure, synthesis, characterization, properties, functionalization, and applications in photovoltaics, batteries, catalysis, biomedicine, quantum technology, and emerging two-dimensional fullerene materials. Original illustrations, tables, and worked examples help explain complex concepts with clarity.Written for students, educators, researchers, engineers, and science enthusiasts, this 2026 edition reflects recent advances while emphasizing the fundamental principles that connect molecular structure to real-world technologies. It is intended to serve as both a learning resource and a reference, inspiring readers to explore one of the most fascinating and versatile families of carbon nanomaterials.