Screening bioinspired surface topologies to Minimizing Ice Formation in Heat Exchangers for Sustainable Energy Systems

Germany and many other countries have committed to reducing CO2 emissions and reach NetZero by 2045. A key requirement for this transition is the replacement of conventional oil and gas heating systems in private households with more sustainable alternatives such as heat pumps. Heat exchangers, the core components of heat pump systems, already provide significantly higher efficiencies compared to fossil-based heating technologies. However, their performance can be reduced by ice formation especially on exposed metallic surfaces. In this study, we systematically investigate a range of biomaterials, natural surface structures, as well as chemically manipulated metallic surfaces to identify patterns for reducing ice crystallization. The screening results provide insights into how surface topology and material choice can be optimized to minimize icing, thereby supporting the development of next-generation heat exchangers with improved energy efficiency and reliability.

Abstract

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Prof. Dr. Nina Gaissert