RF thermal plasma processing of fullerenes

Abstract

This paper presents results on fullerene formation during the processing of different graphite powders in an RF thermal plasma reactor. Graphite powders of different particle size and purity were fed into the reactor (Aldrich, KS4). Optical emission spectroscopy of atomic and molecular species is used as a diagnostic tool of the RF plasma flame. It was found that rotational and vibrational temperatures of C-2 radicals depend on the feed rate of the precursor used. The volumes of RF plasma flame during processing of graphite powders have been calculated. By analysing scanning electron microscopy micrographs of soot, the evaporation rate of the precursors used has been evaluated as well. Based on the obtained values of volumes of plasma flame and evaporation rate of starting powders, the concentration of C-2 radicals has been calculated.