Dynamic Manipulation of Ice Nucleation by an Electrochemical Reaction

In this report, we present a simple and effective method for manipulating ice nucleation through an electric-field-induced electrochemical reaction. By applying an electric field strength of 2 kV/m on water between a tin anode and platinum cathode, a significant increase of 7 °C in the nucleation temperature of water was observed. This threshold electric field strength is considerably lower than those reported in previous studies on electro-freezing. Our approach involves a cyclic process of charging and discharging, enabling the regulation of nucleation behavior to alternate between low and high nucleation temperatures. A comprehensive analysis of the electrochemical process reveals that the electric field facilitates the hydrolysis of tin ions, in which an ice nucleator composed by the hydrolysis product generates and accumulates near the cathode. This study offers a promising methodology for controlling ice nucleation through electrochemical means, paving the way for potential applications in cryopreservation, weather modification, and materials science.