Determining the mechanisms of deformation in flexible crystals using micro-focus X-ray diffraction. Issue 34 (23rd May 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Thompson, Amy J.; Worthy, Anna; Grosjean, Arnaud; Price, Jason R.; McMurtrie, John C.; Clegg, Jack K.
• Is Part Of: CrystEngComm. Volume 23:Issue 34(2021)
• Page Start: 5731
• Page End: 5737
• Publication Date: 2021-05-23
• Subjects: Crystals -- Periodicals; Crystal growth -- Periodicals; Crystallography -- Periodicals; Cristaux -- Périodiques; Cristaux -- Croissance -- Périodiques; Cristallographie -- Périodiques; 548
• DOI: 10.1039/d1ce00401h
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1466-8033

Abstract

Abstract : A newly developed methodology allows for the determination of the mechanisms of deformation in flexible crystals with atomic precision. With broader applications, mapping experiments have wide reaching potential within the field of materials science. Abstract : While the first report of molecular crystals that could bend without breaking was well over a decade ago, the development of suitable characterisation tools remains a priority. Due to the broad reaching applications of these materials in advanced technologies, it is important to develop both mechanical and mechanistic understanding. Micro-focused mapping experiments were designed with the intent of bridging the gap between the measurement of mechanical properties and molecular-scale structural understanding. Herein, we describe a methodology for determining the mechanisms of deformation in flexible crystals with atomic precision and provide examples where it has been implemented. Although micro-focused mapping experiments have potential for application in the determination of mechanisms of flexibility, great care must be taken during both experimental design and data analysis.