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Photoluminescence spectroscopic measurements have allowed the acquisition of high resolution spectra at low temperature for the endohedral metallofullerenes, Er2 @ C82 (isomer I) and Er2 C2 @ C82 (isomer I). The characteristic emission in the 1.5-1.6 μm region corresponds to the 4 I13 / 2 (m) → 4 I15 / 2 (n) transitions of the Er3 + ion for both molecules. The emission arising from Er2 C2 @ C82 (I) appears acuminated (narrow lines that taper to a point) when compared with that of Er2 @ C82 (I). The Er2 C2 @ C82 (I) emission linewidths are comparable to those found in crystals, making this molecule of interest for applications where accessible, well-defined quantum states are required. © 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The endohedral fullerene molecule, N@C60, is a candidate for molecular spin qubits (quantum bits) and spin probes owing to its exceptional electron spin properties. Advancements in the processing of N@C60 are key to obtaining samples of high purity on a reasonable timescale. We investigate enrichment by high throughput processing (flow rate of 18 L h(-1) and operating pressure of 1.5-2 MPa) using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) as a means of scaling N@C60 production. We use detection by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy to map N@C60 during processing, and through the reconstruction of the peak position in the chromatogram, we are able to determine the retention time and relative purity of N@C60 without the need for its isolation. Based on this, we establish a procedure for time-efficient, high throughput processing to isolate N@C60 in high purity.