Logarithmic and Archimedean organic crystalline spirals

Xuesong Yang, Linfeng Lan, Ibrahim Tahir, Zainab Alhaddad, Qi Di, Liang Li, Baolei Tang (), Panče Naumov () and Hongyu Zhang ()
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Xuesong Yang: Jilin University
Linfeng Lan: Jilin University
Ibrahim Tahir: New York University Abu Dhabi
Zainab Alhaddad: New York University Abu Dhabi
Qi Di: Jilin University
Liang Li: New York University Abu Dhabi
Baolei Tang: Jilin University
Panče Naumov: New York University Abu Dhabi
Hongyu Zhang: Jilin University

Nature Communications, 2024, vol. 15, issue 1, 1-11

Abstract: Abstract Crystals can be found in many shapes but do not usually grow as spirals. Here we show that applying a non-uniform layer of a polymer blend onto slender centimeter-size organic crystals prestrains the crystals into hybrid dynamic elements with spiral shapes that respond reversibly to environmental variations in temperature or humidity by curling. Exposure to humidity results in partial uncurling within several seconds, whereby a logarithmic-type spiral crystal is transformed into an Archimedean one. Conical helices obtained by lateral pulling of the spirals can wind around solid objects similar to plant tendrils or lift suspended objects with a positive correlation between the actuator’s elongation and the cargo mass. The morphological, kinematic, and kinetic attributes turn these hybrid materials into an attractive platform for flexible sensors and soft robots, while they also provide an approach to morph crystalline fibers in non-natural spiral habits inaccessible with the common crystallization approaches.

Date: 2024
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-53196-3

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