Diamonds – Shannon at home

Note: a construction aid is your most important tool if putting together a large model of the diamond structure (or a section of polystyrene etc.) as an exhibition piece or to present as a gift to a school Science Department. To compile the diamond structure we first put together a large number of identical regular hexagonal carbon rings. That takes time, but we’ve found it worth doing. Depending on the printing of the sheets, the weight of paper, the spray-painting and the accuracy of your cutting and folding there may be some fine adjustment needed to the position and size of the triangular holes on the construction box. The triangles may be moved in or out and/or enlarged of shrunk slightly. We found it best to print several copies of the aid and make any final adjustment by hand. The three snub tetrahedra should drop into the triangular holes with the lower tips of the snub points flush with the top of the box. The three remaining models then fit in the gaps with the snub points meeting snugly to complete a regular hexagonal ring. After positioning the six pieces, glue (PVA) is put on the snub points, being careful to not allow it to drip onto the box. Each stage of the manufacturing process is important. Getting your box exactly right is the first step to making a cheap regular construction that with secure storage or display will last in good condition for decades.