Theoretical Investigation of Factors Governing the Ice-Shedding Performance of Hygroscopic Polymer Monolayers

The adhesion strength (τ) of ice to hygroscopic polymer monolayers can be minimized by optimizing parameters such as chain length and grafting density. However, a theoretical understanding of the effect of these factors on τ remains elusive. To clarify this, we model the ice adhesion using the Couette law (τ = ηv / h ), where the apparent viscosity (η) and thickness ( h ) of the swollen layer are governed by the polymer volume fraction (ϕ 2 ). We derive η from unentangled semidilute polymer solution theory and calculate h from h 0 /ϕ 2, where h 0 is the dry thickness. A key postulate is that the layer dehydrates under subzero cooling (−Δ T m ), compressing so that water stays in equilibrium with bulk ice and its activity ( a 1 ) satisfies the classical freezing point depression relation. We employ a mean-field thermodynamic model to link ln a 1 to ϕ 2 and the monolayer’s structural parameters. This integrated theory reveals how grafting density, chain length, polymer–water interaction, and monomer size collectively dictate ice adhesion, thereby providing a mechanistic basis for experimental observations and a rational design strategy for high-performance anti-icing coatings.