Solid State Synthesis

• The discovery of a simple method of making large quantities of fullerenes initiated a a great deal of research into the properties of fullerenes and compounds based on fullerenes. In 1992, we achieved the first solid-state synthesis and x-ray characterization of the saturated phase of the Na-C₆₀ system (Nature 350, 568 (1992)). This work suggested that by using smaller alkali metals (i.e. Li) it would be possible to intercalate even more atoms into the host lattice, a finding of great interest for Li batteries. I was awarded the Materials Research Society Award in recognition of outstanding performance in the conduct of research for this work and have been invited to give several presentations based on this research (see the list of invited talks). This paper has been cited nearly 100 times, a clear indication of its impact.