Fullerene decomposition induced by near-infrared laser radiation studied by real-time turbidimetry

C60 and C70 fullerenes dissolved in toluene or n-hexane have been found to be decomposed by near-infrared Nd:YAG laser radiation even at moderate intensities (λ=1064 nm, I=35–70 MW/cm2) quite effectively. Formation of a fine precipitate, occurring during the photolysis, has been studied turbidimetrically. Cubic intensity dependence of the decomposition efficiency was found. The multiphoton dissociation of fullerenes leads to a formation of the fine black precipitate whose particles, overheated by the pulsed laser radiation, cause further decomposition of fullerene cages.