Synthesis of zinc fulleride (Zn x C 60 ) thin films with ultra-low thermal conductivity

• Published in: Journal of applied physics 2011-12, Vol.110 (12), p.124320-124320-5
• Main Authors: Check, Michael H., Dudis, Douglas S., Ferguson, John B., Gengler, Jamie J., Seibel, Harry A., Elliott, Bevan C., Votaw, Zachary S., Voevodin, Andrey A.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0021-8979; 1089-7550
• DOI: 10.1063/1.3671423

The structure and physical properties of doped fullerene materials were investigated for their interesting thermal properties. The synthesis and thermal properties of Zn x C 60 thin films are reported. Thin films of Zn x C 60 were found to have an exceedingly low thermal conductivity of 0.13 Wm −1 K −1 . Differential scanning calorimetry results suggested that a temperature of 357 °C is needed in order to fully intercalate the Zn with the C 60 . Both charge transfer and covalent bonding (between Zn and C 60 ) should be considered when attempting to understand the Raman spectra observed. Moreover, the Zn x C 60 thin films created represent an interesting class of materials that could find use in several thermal applications. Furthermore, in the present case, the exceptionally low thermal conductivity is accompanied by a substantial increase in the electrical conductivity, suggesting interesting thermal and electrical transport.