Synthesis of diamondoids by supercritical xenon discharge plasma

Diamondoids were synthesized by dielectric barrier discharges in supercritical xenon containing dissolved adamantane, which served as a precursor. The synthesis of diamantane was confirmed by gas chromatography mass spectrometry measurements, in addition to energydispersive X-ray spectroscopy and micro-Raman spectroscopy measurements. Moreover, the possible synthesis of two higher-order diamondoids, pentamantane and decamantane, with molecular weights of 330 and 456, respectively, is indicated from the selective ion monitoring mode. The largest production yield was obtained in the vicinity of the critical point.