‘C₆₀ Lunar Lander’ Constructs Direct Electrons at Electrode Interfaces

Significance

Functionalized fullerenes bound to indium tin oxide electrodes create photocurrents with illumination. When all of the carboxylates bind the surface the fullerenes display either photo-oxidation or photo-reduction behavior depending upon the functionalization. In the case of the organometallic complexes, initial irradiation of the fullerene results in rapid oxidation of the metal center and hence the fullerene is not able to oxidize AsA but is able to reduce MV²⁺. With short legs (R = CH₂CO₂H) the complex must lay on its side and the metal center is capable of reacting with the AsA.