In situ observations of fullerene fusion and ejection in carbon nanotubes

Abstract

We present in situ experimental observations of fullerenes seamlessly fusing to single-walled carbon nanotubes. The morphing-entry of a fullerene to the interior of a nanotube is also captured. The confined (1D) motion of the newly-encapsulated fullerene within its host attests to the actual change from the exterior to interior.