Limits of pressure-based ice detection during isochoric vitrification

Area of Science:

• Cryopreservation and biophysics
• Thermodynamics and material science

Background:

• Vitrification under isochoric conditions is a novel cryopreservation technique.
• Interpreting experimental results is challenging due to complex physical phenomena, particularly pressure-based ice detection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a thermodynamic model for interpreting isochoric vitrification experiments.
• To calculate limits for pressure-undetectable ice formation.
• To provide a framework for understanding isochoric vitrification.

Main Methods:

• Developed a simplified thermodynamic model incorporating thermal contraction, cavity formation, ice growth, solute ripening, and glass formation.
• Evaluated the model for various chamber materials and solution compositions.
• Validated the model against limited experimental data.

Main Results:

• Identified thermodynamic limits on pressure-undetectable ice formation.
• Revealed counter-intuitive findings, such as lower-concentration solutions potentially forming more undetectable ice.
• Established a phenomenological framework for evaluating isochoric vitrification.

Conclusions:

• The model aids in interpreting isochoric vitrification experiments and understanding the physical processes involved.
• Results can guide the design of future protocols to minimize undetected ice formation.
• Provides a thermodynamic foundation for a multi-physics understanding of isochoric vitrification.