The physics of icing

Ice accretion is a complex phenomenon with significant implications in natural and engineering contexts, affecting aviation safety, energy infrastructure, and transportation. This chapter explores the physical mechanisms underlying ice formation, starting with the fundamental processes that drive accretion. The discussion covers drop impact hydrodynamics, phase change, and solidification in a wall-bound supercooled liquid, where nucleation and ice growth dynamics shape freezing. Ice crystal impact is examined as another pathway for accretion, and ice adhesion as a crucial factor in ice persistence and removal. By integrating theoretical and experimental insights, this chapter provides a strong foundation for understanding icing physics.