Surface Chemistry of Gallium-Based Liquid Metals

Summary

The surface of liquid metals plays a critical role in establishing thermodynamic equilibria (both mass and energy) at the interface between liquid metal and air. The exploration on the surface structure and electronic property of liquid metals triggers a new field of the liquid metal surface chemistry system, which is indispensable for researching scientific phenomena and developing practical technologies. In this review, we mainly focus on the low-toxicity, biocompatible, and room-temperature molding gallium-based (Ga-based) liquid metals. We firstly introduce these surface characteristics of Ga-based liquid metals such as wetting, oxidizing, layering, and freezing, and offer an in-depth discussion to unearth the underlying mechanisms. On this basis, these related various applications are presented. Finally, we conclude the review with insights into the challenges and prospects in this rapidly emerging research field.