Applications of photocrystallography: a future perspective

The applied potential of photocrystallography is discussed herein. In particular, its ability to help realise new generation 'smart' materials for the opto-electronics industry, alternative photovoltaic solar cells, and health science, is discussed. Where relevant photocrystallographic studies have already been reported, examples are given and put into the context of potential device applicability. In certain areas of photonics research, there are no current photocrystallographic results specifically pertaining to the perceived application described. Here, the likely type of results is projected since this perspective is designed deliberately to look ahead as to what advances photocrystallography could bring to the photonics research area that continues to develop so rapidly. Brief reference to global economic, environmental and health considerations are also made in relevant places in order to put the subject onto a world setting.