Fullerene Negative Ions: Formation and Catalysis.

We first explore negative-ion formation in fullerenes C44 to C136 through low-energy electron elastic scattering total cross sections calculations using our Regge-pole methodology. Then, the formed negative ions C44- to C136- are used to investigate the catalysis of water oxidation to peroxide and water synthesis from H2 and O2. The exploited fundamental mechanism underlying negative-ion catalysis involves hydrogen bond strength-weakening/breaking in the transition state. Density Functional Theory transition state calculations found C60- optimal for both water and peroxide synthesis, C100- increases the energy barrier the most, and C136- the most effective catalyst in both water synthesis and oxidation to H2O2.

Near-threshold electron attachment as Regge resonances: cross sections for K, Rb, and Cs atoms.

We investigate the near-threshold formation of negative ions as Regge resonances in electron-atom scattering, with specific results obtained for e--K, e--Rb, and e--Cs. The complex angular momentum method, implemented within the Mulholland formulation of the total elastic cross sections, is employed. We demonstrate that for e--K, e--Rb, and e--Cs scattering, the near-threshold electron attachment cross sections are characterized by the Wigner threshold behavior, Ramsauer-Townsend minima, and Regge resonances, all discernible only through Regge partial cross section scrutiny. Regge partial, differential, and total elastic cross sections are presented and contrasted, as well as the differential cross section critical minima.