Interfacial Engineering of Liquid Metals in Thermal Science and Technology.

Liquid metals (LMs), with their unique metallic and fluidic properties at room temperature, show promising potential in advanced thermal-related applications. Nevertheless, challenges, such as high surface tension, limited wettability, phase separation, leakage, and corrosion, limit their integration into broader applications. In this Perspective, we overview the interfacial engineering approaches in enhancing the compatibility and stability of LMs in complex application environments. Additionally, applications of LMs in thermal energy conduction, storage, conversion, and infrared modulation and control are discussed. This Perspective highlights the critical role of interfacial engineering in LM-based systems and the pathways for developing next-generation LM-enabled thermal technologies.