Light-on and power-on: a dual mode active de-/anti-icing system using liquid metal-based photothermal and electrothermal pastes

Abstract

Ice accumulation on surfaces in cold environments poses persistent safety and operational challenges across diverse sectors, including transportation, aviation, outdoor equipment, residential buildings, and industrial facilities. In this study, we present a dual-mode de-/anti-icing platform that synergistically integrates the photothermal and electrothermal functionalities of Ga-based liquid metals (LMs). The photothermal component, consisting of micronized LM droplets hybridized with a phase change material (PCM), efficiently converts solar irradiation into heat while self-regulating surface temperature through latent heat absorption under varying seasonal conditions. Separately, the electrothermal component maintains LM continuity and is engineered with Si fillers to enable printable Joule heating with tunable electrical and thermal properties. Both components are formulated as viscoelastic pastes with excellent rheological processability, allowing direct and customizable application to diverse substrates. When sequentially integrated, the system demonstrates reliable and energy-efficient performance, achieving rapid surface heating and effective prevention of ice formation under simulated winter conditions, including overcast and nighttime scenarios. Owing to its ease of application and high performance, the system offers a practical and effective solution for ice management across diverse operational and environmental contexts.