Aromatic hydrocarbon derivatives of fullerences

The fullerences C₆₀ and C₇₀ form adducts with toluene, p‐xylene and other aromatic compounds when refluxed in these solvents in the presences of FeCl₃. Benzene derivatives are produced only when bromine is also present. Mass spectra of the reaction mixtures indicate the presence of derivatives including 1:1 adducts, as well as products of multiple additions of the aromatic molecules and their dehydrogenation products. Tandem mass spectrometry provides evidence for CC bonds formation between the adducts and fullerences.