Recycling studies for the production of fullerenes
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Date
2017
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University of New Brunswick
Abstract
Since its first discovery in 1985, fullerenes have captured the eyes of numerous scientists around the globe for its unique characteristics and versatility in countless applications—most notably in solar cells. However, the expensive and environmentally detrimental production techniques that are currently available have been inadequate in satisfying the growing demand for the material at a reasonable price. In hopes of developing a less expensive and greener solution, the Applied Nanotechnology Lab at the University of New Brunswick has been exploring a 3-phase AC plasma method of production, which requires high plasma gas and carbon feed consumption to achieve parity with the production rate of the competitive systems. In an attempt to minimize the expenses associated with the starting materials, this investigation examines the potential and the implications of recycling for the cost-efficient production of fullerenes.