A Simple Isomeric Separation of D5h and Ih Sc3N@C80 by Selective Chemical Oxidation

Abstract
Two electrochemical oxidation waves assigned to the D5h isomer of Sc3[email protected]80 have been identified, and a 270-mV difference in the first electrochemical oxidation potentials of the Ih and D5h isomers has been measured. On the basis of this oxidative potential difference, a strategy for isomeric purification involving a selective chemical oxidation of the D5h isomer is reported. Variable scan cyclic voltammetry of the resultingly pure Sc3[email protected]80Ih isomer shows evidence of a rapid endohedral chemical reaction following the first reduction process.