Computational Spectroscopy Lab

Crystal Structure Landscapes from combined Vibrational Spectroscopy and ab initio Calculations: 4-(dimethylamino) benzaldehyde.

Abstract

In this work, the usefulness of the Pairs in Molecular Materials (PiMM) approach to elucidate unknown structures of molecular crystals is assessed. This methodology aims to assist the prediction of probable crystal structures from the vibrational spectra, through the identification of the most relevant motifs in the potential energy landscape of the crystal. The method is successfully applied to the elucidation of 4-(dimethylamino)benzaldehyde crystal structure, considered to be “unknown” to illustrate the applicability of the PiMM approach. The proposed crystal structure, based on weak CH⋯O hydrogen bonding and π-stacking interactions, is in full agreement with the recently reported crystal structure.

M Nolasco, P. Vaz, Paulo Ribeiro-Claro.