Marieh B. Al‐Handawi

Papers

Total Citations

141

H-Index

About

Marieh B. Al-Handawi is a materials scientist and crystal engineer whose research has fundamentally reshaped our understanding of organic molecular crystals, demonstrating that these materials possess remarkable mechanical and dynamic properties far beyond their traditionally perceived fragility. Her work bridges the gap between crystalline solids and soft materials, revealing that organic crystals can exhibit elasticity, plasticity, and even self-healing behavior. Her landmark 2020 study on self-healing boronate ester crystals, now amassing 79 citations, challenged longstanding assumptions by showing that molecular crystals could autonomously repair structural damage — a property once considered exclusive to soft matter systems. Her 2024 review on hybrid and composite organic crystal materials, with 40 citations, has become an important reference for researchers exploring the mechanical versatility of crystalline systems. Among her most innovative contributions is her discovery that hollow photoreactive crystals can bend, twist, and propel themselves through controlled gas release, opening exciting possibilities for light-driven micro-actuators and crystal-based mechanical devices. Al-Handawi's research sits at the intersection of supramolecular chemistry, mechanically responsive materials, and smart crystal engineering, making her an influential voice in the rapidly evolving field of dynamic solid-state materials.