Turning a material upside-down can sometimes make it softer
(PHYSorg.com Chemistry)

Through the combined effect of flexoelectricity and piezoelectricity, researchers at the ICN2 led by ICREA Gustau Catalán in collaboration with the UAB have found that polar materials can be made more or less resistant to dents when they are turned upside down or when a voltage is applied to switch their polarization. This research could lead to `smart mechanical materials for use in smart coatings and ferroelectric memories.