Volume 64, Issue 28 e202507102
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From Binary to Higher-Order Organic Cocrystals: Design Principles and Performance Optimization

Jia-Hao Jiang

Jia-Hao Jiang

School of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou Jiangsu, 215009 P.R. China

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Shuai Zhao

Corresponding Author

Shuai Zhao

Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Soochow University, Suzhou Jiangsu, 215123 P.R. China

E-mail: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]

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Yanqiu Sun

Corresponding Author

Yanqiu Sun

School of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou Jiangsu, 215009 P.R. China

E-mail: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]

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Xue-Dong Wang

Corresponding Author

Xue-Dong Wang

Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Soochow University, Suzhou Jiangsu, 215123 P.R. China

E-mail: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]

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First published: 05 June 2025

Graphical Abstract

From binary to higher-order organic cocrystals: strategic design principles, precision synthesis, and multifunctional applications. The emergence of ternary and higher-order cocrystalline systems, comprising three or more components, has revolutionized the paradigm of material design by significantly expanding both structural diversity and functional potential. These advanced architectures not only exhibit enhanced design versatility through synergistic molecular engineering but also enable unprecedented modulation of physicochemical properties, thereby introducing novel optoelectronic, mechanical, and stimuli-responsive functionalities.

Abstract

Organic cocrystals, particularly the evolution from binary to higher-order structures, have garnered considerable attention due to their tunable intermolecular interactions and unique material properties. Binary cocrystals, formed through π-π stacking, charge transfer, and hydrogen/halogen bonding, allow for precise control over molecular packing and enhanced optoelectronic properties. In contrast, higher-order cocrystals, incorporating three or more components, enable greater complexity and functional diversity. Strategies such as homologation via isostructural substitution, hierarchical intermolecular interactions, and long-range Synthon Aufbau Modules facilitate the synthesis of these advanced materials. The shift toward higher-order cocrystals paves the way for novel applications in fields such as deep learning for cocrystal prediction, drug design, organic solar cells, and NIR-II photothermal conversion. However, challenges related to molecular screening, ratio optimization, scalable synthesis, and long-term stability remain critical hurdles for the broader implementation of these materials in practical applications.

Conflict of Interests

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Data Availability Statement

Data sharing is not applicable to this article as no new data were created or analyzed in this study.

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