| Abstract Scope |
Complex crystals in this talk refer to special structures traditionally categorized as cocrystals, hybrid crystals or composite crystals. While these materials are limited in number, porosity in them gives a unique opportunity for interaction of a guest infiltrate with an assembly of host properties not otherwise accessible on such an intimate scale. The host consists of two or more crystallographic components within the same crystal, each with its own unit cell. Typically, distortions result from the crystallographic interaction of the unit cells, but the basic individual structures still persist. However, crystal packing effects may lead to significant porosity. Here we review the recently published work in this area, and explore functional applications including catalysis, adsorption, synthesis, and optical, electronic, and nano-mechanical effects. |