STRUCTURAL-ANALYSIS OF FULLERENE AND FULLERIDE SOLIDS FROM SYNCHROTRON X-RAY-POWDER DIFFRACTION

Synchrotron-based X-ray powder diffraction has proved indispensable in the study of fullerene solids, their alkali metal intercalation compo unds and chemical derivatives. Here we review some recent developments to which David E. Cox has made important material and intellectual co ntributions, not only in advancing the held of fullerenes but in helpi ng to train a new generation of young scientists. Topics covered inclu de finite vacancy concentrations in superconducting phases, estimates of the vacancy formation energies from temperature-dependent phase ana lysis, and the effects of alkali metal intercalation on orientational states, order-disorder transitions and superconductivity.