Dynamic Crystal Photonics: Mechanically Mobile Organic Nonlinear Optical Microring Resonators

This work investigates the photonic aspects of organic crystal microring resonators (MRRs) under mechanically driven multifaceted motions, thereby pioneering the concept of dynamic crystal photonics. The MRRs are fabricated via surface-tension-assisted self-assembly of 6,6'-((1E,1'E)-hydrazine-1,2-diylidenebis(methaneylylidene))bis(2,4-dibromophenol) (HDBP), exhibiting nonlinear optical (NLO) emission and frequency comb-type whispering-gallery modes. Interestingly, the MRRs are micromechanically reconfigurable into various strained architectures, including lifting, transferring, vertical standing, axial spinning, and wheel-like rolling, using an atomic force microscopy cantilever tip. The MRRs retained their photonic traits throughout these dynamic motions, underscoring their mechanical robustness. Notably, the demonstration of axial spinning and rolling locomotion extends the manipulation capabilities beyond 2D control, enabling complete 3D spatial control. These results lay the groundwork for next-generation mechanophotonic crystal systems, enabling precise, dynamic control of the spatial orientation and photonic behavior of soft organic elements.