Role of Nanoscale Interfacial Proximity in Contact Freezing in Water

Contact freezing is a mode of atmospheric ice nucleation in which collision between dry nucleating particle (INP) and water droplet results considerably faster heterogeneous nucleation. The molecular mechanism such an enhancement is, however, still mystery. While earlier studies had attributed it to collision-induced transient perturbations, recent experiments point the pivotal role nanoscale proximity INP free interface. By simulating within INP-supported nanofilms two model water-like tetrahedral liquids, we demonstrate that sufficient for inducing rate increases commensurate with those observed contact experiments, but only if interface has tendency enhance homogeneous Water suspected possessing this latter property, known as surface propensity. Our findings therefore establish connection propensity kinetic during We also observe proceeds through markedly distinct from classical nucleation, involving formation hourglass-shaped crystalline nuclei conceive at either have lower energy due interfaces modulation interfacial structure by INP. In addition providing valuable insights into physics our can assist improving accuracy measurements advancing understanding on nonuniform surfaces organic, polymeric, biological materials.