Isomer Selective Thermosalience and Luminescence Switching in Organic Crystals

Organic crystals that respond to external stimuli are interesting for the design of smart materials. Here, we show that molecular engineering can transform simple naphthalidenimine-boron complexes- known for their exciting photophysical properties-into functional materials that exhibit thermosalience and thermal-luminescence switching. Detailed crystallographic and spectroscopic investigations revealed the role of subtle molecular parameters in deciphering charge-transfer interactions, which in turn imparted dynamic properties to the crystals. The simultaneous observation of thermally induced jumping and luminescence switching makes these crystals ideal for optoelectronic applications.

Automated summary

In this study, molecular engineering was used to transform simple naphthalidenimine-boron complexes into functional materials with thermosalience and thermal-luminescence switching properties. Crystallographic and spectroscopic investigations revealed the role of subtle molecular parameters in facilitating charge-transfer interactions.