# Kinetics of Stacking Order Evolution During Heterogeneous Ice Formation Source: [Kinetics of Stacking Order Evolution During Heterogeneous Ice Formation]() Collection index: [llms.txt]() Data updated: 2026-03-04T05:00:05.079Z Authors: Xudan Huang, Zifeng Yuan, Chon-Hei Lo, Huacong Sun, Lei Liao, Hongbo Han, Wenxi Li, Wenlong Wang, Zhi Xu, Lei Liu, Xuedong Bai, Limei Xu, Enge Wang, Lifen Wang Published: 2026-02-28T03:47:29.000Z ## Abstract The selection of stacking order in a broad range of close-packed polymorphic materials remains a challenging enigma. Using in situ cryogenic transmission electron microscopy, we uncover the atomistic mechanisms governing the vapour deposition growth of ice. We find that the heterogeneous ice nucleation and growth undergoes recrystallization accompanied by bifurcation, reflecting a coherent epitaxial transition from a cubic-ice embryonic core to hexagonal-ice prismatic dendrites, with intermediate stacking-disordered layers serving as a dynamic fluctuating bridge. Supported by molecular dynamics simulations, these phenomena are attributed to a surface-constrained, symmetry-breaking crystallization preference aligned with the principle of minimizing free energy. Our results highlight the critical role of the combined effects of surface and symmetry in shaping ice crystallization, providing fresh insights into crystal growth mechanisms and guiding principles for the design of advanced materials. ## Recorded benchmark results A research result applies to its stated dataset, split, metric and evaluation configuration. Compare like-for-like settings, preserve the metric's unit and direction, and distinguish paper-reported results from independent reproduction. The best result recorded here is not a claim of exhaustive, current global coverage. ## Original sources and implementation [Original paper]() [PDF]()