Lanthanum carbide

Lanthanum carbide (LaC2) is a chemical compound. It is manufactured through a process of diffusion and evaporation of Graphite and Lanthanum metal in a DC arc furnace. It is used in research into manufacture of superconductors and nanotubes.

In 1993, scientists at Wellesley College discovered a way to make lanthanum carbide sealed in a fullerene cage, which is not affected by moisture, as it is in the open air. This made use of the compound possible for containers in which to hold buckyballs, which they dubbed 'buckyjars'.

Conditions/substances to avoid are: strong acids, strong oxidizers.