Lanthanum Carbide

Lanthanum carbide (LaC₂) is a chemical compound. One way in which it is manufactured is through a process of diffusion and evaporation of graphite and lanthanum metal in a DC arc furnace. Researchers use it to study the manufacture of certain types of superconductors and nanotubes.

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