Multifunctional single-component organic molecular materials: ferroelectricity, negative thermal expansion, and polymorphism

Abstract

Organic materials with multifunctional properties, such as ferroelectricity, negative thermal expansion, and the phenomenon of polymorphism, have gained enormous interest from material scientists due to their unusual characteristics and unique applications. Moreover, research on single-component systems with such unusual properties is on the rise despite the necessity of satisfying strict criteria for designing such materials. This highlight provides an overview of the evolution of research on purely organic molecular ferroelectrics and thermo-responsive materials and the importance of studying polymorphism in such materials. Starting from their basics to the role of crystallographic symmetry in designing and characterizing, the mechanisms these special classes of materials follow, and the possible use of various techniques for advancing these research areas are discussed here. This highlight is expected to advance materials science research and to motivate novice researchers to explore these key research areas.