No abstract

A transformation map covering as many as 98% of metallofullerenes with clear C2n (2n = 74–86) cage structures is uncovered with C2(27)-C88, C1(7)-C86, C2(13)-C84 and C2(11)-C84 as key links.

Encapsulating one to three metal atoms or a metallic cluster inside fullerene cages affords endohedral metallofullerenes (EMFs) classified as mono‐, di‐, tri‐, and cluster‐EMFs, respectively. Although the coexistence of various EMF species in soot is common for rare‐earth metals, we herein report that europium tends to prefer the formation of mono‐EMFs. Mass spectroscopy reveals that mono‐EMFs (Eu@C2n) prevail in the Eu‐containing soot. Theoretical calculations demonstrate that the encapsulation energy of the endohedral metal accounts for the selective formation of mono‐EMFs and rationalize similar observations for EMFs containing other metals like Ca, Sr, Ba, or Yb. Consistently, all isolated Eu‐EMFs are mono‐EMFs, including Eu@D3h(1)‐C74, Eu@C2v(19138)‐C76, Eu@C2v(3)‐C78, Eu@C2v(3)‐C80, and Eu@D3d(19)‐C84, which are identified by crystallography. Remarkably, Eu@C2v(19138)‐C76 represents the first Eu‐containing EMF with a cage that violates the isolated‐pentagon‐rule, and Eu@C2v(3)‐C78 is the first C78‐based EMF stabilized by merely one metal atom.

An unexpected cyclopropanated C3-ring coordinating with a Ti3-unit is successfully entrapped inside the icosahedral-C80 cage.