Fullerene

A C-60 Fullerene.
The fullerene molecule consists of 60 carbon atoms arranged in pentagons and hexagons. It was discovered in 1985 by Richard Smalley and Robert Curl of the United States and Harold Kroto of the United Kingdom. (This discovery later led to their award of the 1996 Nobel Prize in Chemistry). It is also known as a buckminsterfulleren due to the resemblance of this shape to the geodesic domes designed and built by the architect R Buckminster Fuller.

The physical and chemical properties of C60 and other fullerenes are now under investigation. C60 is an extremely stable compound; the molecule can withstand very high temperatures and pressures. The outer surface of C60 can react with a wide variety of atoms and molecules, yet its stable, spherical structure is maintained. Its unique structure and properties suggest potential uses for fullerenes as superconductors, lubricants, industrial catalysts, and drug-delivery systems (e.g., targeted cancer therapy).

Image Source: Jeffrey Neaton, LBNL