Isomer specific intercalation chemistry: Potassium insertion into the D₂ and D(2d) isomers of C₈₄

Reaction of solids of pure D(2d) and D₂ C₈₄, as well as mixtures of these isomers, with an excess of potassium produces the cubic phases K(8+x)C₈₄, with multiple occupancy of the octahedral site by potassium. Analysis of X-ray powder diffraction data reveals that the anions adopt well-defined orientations in the solid, driven by the anion-cation contacts. Electron paramagnetic resonance measurements on the solid fullerides indicate that the electronic properties depend on the particular isomer of C₈₄ used as host.