Abstract
Ice recrystallisation inhibition (IRI) is typically associated with ice binding proteins, but polymers and other mimetics are emerging. Here we identify phenylalanine as a minimalistic, yet potent, small-molecule IRI capable of inhibiting ice growth at just 1 mg mL−1. Facial amphiphilicity is shown to be a crucial structural feature, with para-substituents enhancing (hydrophobic) or decreasing (hydrophilic) IRI activity. Both amino and acid groups were found to be essential. Solution-phase self-assembly of Phenylalanine was not observed, but the role of self-assembly at the ice/water interface could not be ruled out as a contributing factor.
Original language | English (US) |
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Journal | Chemical Communications |
DOIs | |
State | Accepted/In press - 2022 |
All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes
- Catalysis
- Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
- Ceramics and Composites
- General Chemistry
- Surfaces, Coatings and Films
- Metals and Alloys
- Materials Chemistry