Multiply twinned C₆₀ and C₇₀ nanoparticles

Nanoparticles of C₆₀ and C₇₀ prepared by aerosol flow reactor method show a well developed morphology when produced at sufficiently high temperatures. Hexagonal plate shaped, icosahedral and decagonal particles of C₆₀ and C₇₀ are formed. Morphology and internal structure are studied by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The plate-like particles are lamellar–twinned and grow preferentially on the side-faces by nucleation of new molecular layers along re-entrant corners. The decagonal multiply twinned nanoparticles are strained and show a distinct deviation from cubic symmetry. Some of the C₇₀ particles exhibit a modulated structure to accommodate the internal stress; this is possible because of the ellipsoidal shape of the C₇₀ molecule.