Recent advancements in multistimuli-responsive organic and inorganic materials: Crystallographic insights into structure-function relationships

Abstract

Crystallography is a crucial tool for understanding the complex arrangement of atoms in crystalline solids/materials. By analyzing the single crystal structures of various molecules/materials, researchers gain valuable insights into molecular configurations, symmetries, intermolecular interactions, and the dynamic behaviors of materials. This understanding is essential for predicting how materials will behave under different external stimuli, such as temperature, pressure, light, redox agents, electric and magnetic fields, and pH levels. Through single crystal X-ray diffraction studies, we can carefully examine the relationship between a material's structure and its tunable properties or functionalities under the influence of multiple external stimuli. This detailed understanding of structure enables the rational design of innovative organic and inorganic materials tailored for particular applications, including sensors, drug delivery systems, soft robotics, bio-imaging, optoelectronics, biomedical devices, and anti-counterfeiting technologies. The significance of crystallography extends beyond structural analysis, it uncovers the complex relationships between a material's structure and its functional properties. By enhancing our understanding of these correlations, crystallography facilitates the development and optimization of multistimuli-responsive materials for a multifunctional applications. Therefore, this manuscript emphasizes the essential role of crystallography in advancing the design of organic and inorganic materials that can effectively respond to diverse external stimuli