Reversible twisting-induced crystalline–polycrystalline transformation in cyanoacrylate crystals

Abstract

We report cyanoacrylate-based organic crystalline materials that exhibit reversible hand-induced helical twisting through the combined action of 1D elasticity and 2D plasticity. These crystals twist and untwist without lattice damage, retaining their elastic integrity through π slip-stacking and Cl⋯Cl, C–H⋯Cl, and Me⋯Me interactions. Their unique integration of elastic recovery, plastic bending, and reversible twisting highlights their potential as mechanically adaptive materials for flexible and responsive devices.