Ice Recrystallization Inhibition Nanoparticles

Surface energy tuned anti-icing

Nanoparticles with tailored surface free energy effectively inhibit ice recrystallization, offering a new design strategy for cryoprotective materials.

Li, Xin · Guo, Yiyang · Li, Min · Yubin, Ma · Chen, Li Li · Liu, Yang · Ma, Xuehu · Xue, Changying · Zuo, Yi · Cui, Zhanfeng · He, Yi · Xu, Nan · Sun, Bingbing

Small 2026

Advantages

Predictable IRI

The IRI ability of nanoparticles is closely related to their surface free energy, allowing prediction of performance from surface properties.

Mechanism validated

Molecular dynamics simulations support the relationship between SFE and IRI, reinforcing the experimental findings.

Broad material set

The study covers a comprehensive library including Stöber silica, PLGA, and gold nanoparticles, demonstrating generality across material types.

Applications

• Cell cryopreservation agents：Added to cryopreservation solutions to reduce ice crystal damage to cells.
• Anti-icing coating materials：Used in coatings to inhibit ice growth and recrystallization on surfaces.
• Frozen food preservation：Prevents large ice crystal formation during freezing, preserving food texture.