Template-free fabrication of fullerene (C60, C70) nanometer-sized hollow spheres under solvothermal conditions

Fullerene (C60, C70) hollow spheres were fabricated by controlled oxidation of fullerene monoanions under solvothermal conditions. Scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope showed the uniform size and the hollow nature of the spheres. Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrum and Raman spectroscopy proved that the hollow spheres are mainly composed of pristine fullerene. An Ostwald ripening mechanism is proposed.