Isomerization-Driven Photo-Coloration and Elastic Bendability: A Unique Blend of Molecular and Structural Property in Organic Single Crystals

Abstract

Abstract This study analyzes the trans−cis isomerization-induced photo-coloration in elastically bendable chalcone single crystals. Crystal’s bendability, fluorescence, photo-coloration, and thermal stability have exhibited substantial changes by para-substitution with chloro, iodo, or methyl groups. It is interesting to notice that when the molecular property, trans−cis isomerization, is invoked, the crystals turn into a polycrystalline conformational mixture, brittle, photo-colored, and highly fluorescing in solution.