Non-thermal magnetic deicing using two-dimensional chromium telluride

Abstract

Two-dimensional (2D) chromium telluride Cr₂Te₃ exhibits strong ferromagnetic ordering with high coercivity at low temperatures and paramagnetic behavior when approaching room temperature. The spin states of monolayer Cr₂Te₃ show ferromagnetic ordering in the ground state. In situ Raman analysis reveals a reversible structure transformation and hence proves ferromagnetic to paramagnetic transition during low-temperature heating cycles (0–25 °C). The magnetic phase transition near room temperature in 2D Cr₂Te₃ prompted an exploratory study of these layered materials for energy application. We demonstrate that the low-temperature ferromagnetic behavior can be used to magnetically deice material surfaces using an external magnetic source, avoiding the use of harsh chemicals and high temperatures. The hydrophobic nature and dipole interactions of H₂O molecules with the surface of the 2D Cr₂Te₃ coating aid in the condensation of ice droplets formed on the surfaces. First-principles calculations also confirm the observed crystal structure, surface interaction, and magnetic properties of 2D Cr₂Te₃.