Towards prediction of stoichiometry in crystalline multicomponent complexes

We report on the crystal structure of urea (U) with acetic acid (A), its physical stability and its predictability using computational methods. The crystal structure of urea:acetic acid (U:A) shows hydrogen-bond ribbons and a 1:2 stoichiometry. Crystal structure prediction calculations are presented for two sets of U:A stoichiometries: 1:1 and 1:2. A 1:3 stoichiometry is also partially explored by means of a synthon approach. The calculated lattice energies, along with hydrogen-bond patterns, of crystal structures predicted with the three stoichiometries are presented and analysed to provide a rationalisation for the stoichiometry observed. Exploring stoichiometric diversity using computational methods provides a tool for the rationalisation of stoichiometry preferences in crystalline multicomponent systems and a first step towards their prediction.