Organic Crystals with Polymorph-Dependent Mechanical and Thermal Responsive Properties

The investigation of flexible organic crystals has garnered substantial attention as an emerging frontier of scientific exploration. Within this realm, we report a model involving a compound akin to phenylacetonitrile that unveils the existence of two distinct crystalline phases characterized by markedly contrasting mechanical properties. One crystalline phase displays remarkable flexibility while the other one possesses a predisposition toward brittleness, attributes that can be ascribed to the divergent structures of the respective crystalline forms. Furthermore, these crystals showcase temperature-dependent spectral variations, thereby ushering in fresh possibilities for conducting precise temperature measurements through the utilization of optical methodologies. Elaborate experiments conducted on the optical waveguide properties of this substance have effectively validated its capacity to translate fluctuations in temperature into dependable optical signals. This study serves as a compelling testament to the extraordinary resilience and sensitivity exhibited by these organic crystals while concurrently broadening their range of applicability as optical waveguides capable of enduring high temperatures.

Automated summary

This study reports a model involving a compound similar to phenylacetonitrile, which reveals the existence of two crystalline phases with different mechanical properties. These crystals exhibit temperature-dependent spectral variations and can be used for precise temperature measurements. The experiments also validate their performance as optical waveguides.