Frost formation at the nanoscopic level was studied in situ by means of atomic force microscopy (AFM).  The results obtained on mica at low surface temperature conditions displayed a slow directionally growing frost layer.  The propagating ice layer was found to be only a few nanometers thin.  Conversely, when increasing the temperature rapid melting occurred uniformly across the layer.  Moreover, AFM quantitative nanomechanical analysis revealed a significant difference in the adhesion behavior of the frost layer and the bare mica substrate demonstrating the role of chemistry and topography on the interfacial properties of the hydrophilic surfaces.  The presented metrological approach sets the stage for studying many important surface phenomena of ice at various interfaces with the aim to for example develop new nanomaterials and surfaces with tailored anti-icing properties.

Nanoscale surface properties of frost during formation

247th National Meeting (2014)

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