Maneuverability and Processability of Molecular Crystals

• Published in: Angewandte Chemie International Edition 2024-09, Vol.63 (39), p.e202411405-n/a
• Main Authors: Lan, Linfeng, Zhang, Hongyu
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Crystal growth; crystal maneuverability; crystal processability; Crystals; dynamic crystals; Fabrication; flexible crystals; Maneuverability; Materials science; molecular crystals; Organic chemistry; Organic crystals
• ISSN: 1433-7851; 1521-3773; 1521-3773
• DOI: 10.1002/anie.202411405

Crystal adaptronics, a burgeoning field at the intersection of materials science and engineering, focuses on harnessing the unique properties of organic molecular crystals to achieve unprecedented levels of maneuverability and processability in various applications. Increasingly, ordered stacks of crystalline materials are being endowed with fascinating mechanical compliance changes in response to external environments. Understanding how these crystals can be manipulated and tailored for specific functions has become paramount in the pursuit of advanced materials with customizable properties. Simultaneously, the processability of organic molecular crystals plays a pivotal role in shaping their utility in real‐world applications. From growth methodologies to fabrication techniques, the ability to precisely machine these crystals opens new avenues for engineering materials with enhanced functionality. These processing methods enhance the versatility of organic crystals, allowing their integration into various devices and technologies, and further expanding the potential applications. This review aims to provide a concise overview of the current landscape in the study of dynamic organic molecular crystals, with an emphasis on the interconnected themes of operability and processability. This minireview presents a comprehensive exploration of innovative growth methodologies, advanced fabrication techniques, and the emerging frontier of self‐healing properties within crystal adaptronics. By highlighting key advancements and promising avenues for future research, this minireview not only provides invaluable insights into the current state of crystal maneuverability and processability but also lays the foundation for ground‐breaking discoveries in materials science.