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Optimizing Conditions for Ultrasound Extraction of Fullerenes from Coal Matrices

Publication at Faculty of Science |
2009

Abstract

Conditions for ultrasound toluene extraction of synthetic C60 added to powdered bituminous coal were tested. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to determine the fullerene content in the obtained extracts.

The results indicated a possible negative effect of sample demineralization (HCl/HF) and N2 purging on the extraction yield of C60. On the contrary, a 30% yield increase was registered when the coal was pre-extracted with pentane or pentane/toluene.

The best conditions for C60 recovery in the investigated mixtures are 30min of sonication at 280-285K. The effects of sample filtration, sequential extraction, ultrasound bath power and treatments of C60 solution alone are also discussed.