Temperature-Dependent Raman Spectroscopy of Fullerene Nanocar Wheels

Nanocars are a type of machine consisting of wheels, axles, and a chassis. The four fullerenes, which act as wheels, are attached at the corners of the H-shaped chassis. Both fullerenes and nanocar molecules have been shown to exhibit rotational movement under various temperatures. We aim to characterize translational and rotational movement in nanocars, as well as the effects of temperature and substrate. We want to lay the foundations for self-assembling nanostructures, chemical catalysis and biomedical drug delivery.

This research was undertaken as part of the NanoJapan program hosted by Rice University in summer 2011.