Unveiling the Healing Mechanism of Nanopores in Ice Films

As a ubiquitous substance in nature, ice has attracted substantial research interest across a variety of fields, including physics, environmental science, biology, and cryopreservation. However, the intricate structural transformations within ice remain elusive owing to the stringent experimental constraints. Herein, the detailed evolution of ice nanopores, including expansion and healing, is investigated using advanced cryo-electron microscopy combined with low-dose techniques, and the underlying mechanisms are revealed through surface-free energy analysis. Three pivotal factors are identified as driving the evolution mechanism of ice nanopores: the nanopore geometry and dimensions and the thickness of the ice film. This research not only provides novel insights into the dynamic structural evolution of ice at the molecular scale but also paves the way for a deeper understanding of the fundamental properties and behaviors of ice. Moreover, the healing mechanism of the nanopores is anticipated to be utilized in ice manipulation and nanofabrication.