C50C80

C50C80 is a designation used in some carbon nanomaterial references to denote a family of carbon clusters whose atom counts range from about 50 to 80. It is not a single defined molecule but a size-oriented category applied in theoretical studies, mass-spectrometric identifications, and discussions of synthesis pathways for small-to-medium fullerenes and related cages.

Structure within this range can vary considerably. Clusters often adopt closed-shell, cage-like geometries analogous to fullerenes, though with fewer or more carbon atoms than the well-known C60. Because the number of atoms changes, the possible symmetries and isomeric forms proliferate, and many candidates remain predicted by computation rather than experimentally resolved. Experimental identification typically relies on mass spectrometry, photoelectron spectroscopy, and chromatographic separation to distinguish specific isomers within the C50–C80 window.

Synthesis and isolation of C50C80 species occur in high-energy carbon vapor processes, such as laser ablation or arc-discharge methods, where a mixture of carbon clusters is generated. Isolation of particular members in this range requires post-synthesis separation techniques and careful characterization to confirm cage geometry and purity.

Properties of individual C50C80 isomers vary widely with structure. Electronic behavior can range from semiconducting to metallic, and chemical functionalization is often explored to improve stability and solubility. Research interest centers on understanding fundamental structure–property relationships and potential roles as precursors for functionalized carbon nanomaterials.

See also: fullerene, carbon nanostructures, C60, C70.