Formation of twisted AB-graphitic and Fullerene-related tubular structures during soot deposition from the flaming combustion of polymers

A characterization of fullerene soots prepared by Kratschmer-Huffman technique under helium at a pressure of 50 Torr and 1273 K annealing temperature is presented. Polystyrene soot was prepared by supplying radiant heat to cause ignition from a 6 kW cone heater to a 50×50×5 mm³ sample of nonexpanded polystyrene, supported horizontally. The flame temperature was monitored with a thermocouple and pyrometer. A transmission electron micrograph of the polystyrene soot depicted a tubular structure similar to those of a fullerene soot. Fullerene soot and polystyrene soot have remarkably similar properties, provided that the flame and annealing temperatures are the same.