Scientists synthesize diamondiyne, a new 3D carbon allotrope

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have created diamondiyne, a three-dimensional carbon allotrope proposed 35 years ago. The material forms from triple-bonded carbon into a network of tetrahedra without high pressure, with its structure confirmed by electron microscopy in 10-nanometer patches.

• Diamondiyne is a new 3D carbon allotrope proposed 35 years ago
• It forms at low pressure, unlike diamond
• Crystal structure confirmed in 10-nanometer patches
• Porous network of tetrahedra linked by triple bonds