Electricity resonance-induced phase transition of water confined in nanochannels

The phase transition of water molecules in nanochannels under varying external electric fields is studied by molecular dynamics simulations. It is found that the phase transition of water molecules in nanochannels occurs by changing the frequency of the varying electric field. Water molecules maintain the ice phase when the frequency of the varying electric field is less than 16 THz or greater than 30 THz, and they completely melt when the frequency of the varying electric field is 24 THz. This phenomenon is attributed to the breaking of hydrogen bonds when the frequency of the varying electric field is close to their inherent resonant frequency. Moreover, the study demonstrates that the critical frequency varies with the confinement situation. The new mechanism of regulating the phase transition of water molecules in nanochannels revealed in this study provides a perspective for further understanding of the phase transition of water molecules in nanochannels, and has great application potential in preventing icing and deicing.