Alkyl-Fullerene Materials of Tunable Morphology and Function

The self-assembly of molecules into complex superstructures underpins the functionality many biological processes and physical materials. Many such structures stem from amphiphilic monomer units, with attractions repulsions between their ends determining structure state assembled system under equilibrium, which affect its function. photophysical electronic properties fullerene (C60) have been extensively studied proven useful in fabrication a variety devices. simple attachment alkyl side chains can convert this highly crystalline solid an alkyl-C60 hydrophobic amphiphile, alkyl-alkyl C60-C60 interactions determine state, phase, morphology, or architecture substance, while optoelectronic C60 are retained. In award article, lipid membranes, nanostructures, mesophases, even room-temperature liquid fullerenes formed through approach described. each case, effects chain selection substitution on morphology function explained. ways inherent be adapted for particular applications detailed, as superhydrophobic surfaces photoconductive Thereafter, drawing these advances, application to other functional ?-conjugated cores is demonstrated using some examples molecular liquids. produces alkyl-fullerene amphiphiles that undergo self-assembly, retention electrochemical functions. Chain length, position branching variation afford bilayer electrodes, lamellar nanowires micellar structures, but also unusual kinetically objects liquids isolate cores.