Graphene and Fullerenes

Graphene and fullerenes are different arrangements of the element carbon. However, their structures are different from both diamond and graphite.

Graphene

Graphene is a single layer of graphite, so it is only cell thick.

The carbon atoms in graphene are joined by strong covalent bonds to form a hexagonal lattice structure.

Properties and uses of graphene

  • Graphene has delocalised electrons, which can move along its surface, so it conducts electricity. Also, it is an excellent conductor of heat.
  • Graphene is one of the strongest materials in the world. This is due to the tightly packed carbon atoms, which are joined by strong covalent bonds. However, it is also very light. In fact, graphene is the lightest material known to exist.

Fullerenes

Fullerenes are molecules that are made of carbon atoms and they form hollow shapes. Two common examples of fullerenes are:

  • Buckminsterfullerene
  • Nanotubes

Buckminsterfullerene

The first fullerene molecule to be discovered was buckminsterfullerene, also known as ‘buckyball’.

The molecule contains 60 carbon atoms, which are arranged in a hollow sphere. The spheres mostly contain rings with 6 carbon atoms, but there are also 5-carbon rings and 7-carbon rings.

Uses of buckminsterfullerene

Due to its unique structure, buckminsterfullerene has many uses, such as:

  • Delivering drugs to different parts of the body
  • Lubricants (e.g. in machines)
  • Catalysts

Nanotubes

Nanotubes are a group of fullerenes made from carbon. They are shaped like long cylinders and have rings with 6 carbon atoms.

Properties and uses of nanotubes

  • High tensile strength (they can easily be stretched without breaking)
  • Great conductors of electricity and heat

Research into nanotubes is still in the early stages. But due to their properties of nanotubes, they are useful for a wide range of specialised materials and electronics.