Pressure-induced superelastic behaviour of isonicotinamide

Chem Commun (Camb). 2021 Nov 9;57(89):11827-11830. doi: 10.1039/d1cc04692f.

Abstract

Dynamic organic crystals have come to the fore as potential lightweight alternatives to inorganic actuators providing high weight-to-force ratios. We have observed pressure-induced superelastic behaviour in Form I of isonicotinamide. The reversible single-crystal to single-crystal transformation exhibited by the system is an important component for functioning actuators. Crucially, our observations have enabled us to propose a mechanism for the molecular movement supported by Pixel energy calculations, that may pave the way for the future design and development of functioning dynamic crystals.

MeSH terms

  • Elasticity*
  • Hydrogen Bonding
  • Models, Chemical
  • Niacinamide / chemistry*
  • Phase Transition
  • Pressure

Substances

  • Niacinamide
  • isonicotinamide