Evaluating the morphology contribution and modeling of solidification time for icephobic surface design

Abstract This study proposes a freezing time calculation model on textured surfaces for icing phenomena and icephobic design. A microstructure was generated on as-received PDMS thin films using a lithography method, followed by a low-energy chemical compound coating. Surfaces after treatment exhibited excellent water-repellent performance with high apparent contact angle and droplet mobility. Anti-icing investigations revealed that the freezing time on microstructured PDMS increased by ∼ 27% compared to flat PDMS, and the ice adhesion strength was reduced by up to ∼ 40% depending on surface morphology. A custom-built apparatus equipped with a high-speed camera enabled accurate measurement, which was then compared with predicted freezing time extracted from the proposed calculation model, showing a reliable correlation. The results demonstrate consistent agreement between surface topology, freezing behavior, and adhesion, underscoring the theoretical foundation for icephobic surface design. This work advances understanding of anti-icing mechanisms and offers a quantitative pathway for practical applications.