The Arrogance of Ignorance

The existence of carbon rings and chains in the form of "Cumulene" and "Polyyene" has severely been neglected for many years. Herein, we have shown via in situ transmission electron microscopy their formation while measuring their functional properties dictated by "Habbard Transitons". For the very first time, it was observed the semi conductive and insulator transition of these Carbyne's constituents. The growth of carbon rings was also possible outside the column of an electron microscope arising from the segregation and co-precipitation of carbon, originating from the organic layer capping the iron particle. Accordingly, chains and rings of carbon atoms can serve as the smallest interconnects for electro-mechanical devices. The organic layers have also shown the possibility to stabilise transition metal nanoparticles hindering their ageing (corrosion) when exposed to air. Last but not least the organic capping layer is also able to prevent the growth of nanoparticles in a solid-state reaction. When under 5 nm in diameter Gold act as a catalyst in a variety of reactions ranging from hydrogenation to reduction and decomposition of NO, NO2 and the CO oxidation at room temperature.