Plasmon-Induced Semiconductor-Based Photo-Thermal Catalysis: Fundamentals, Critical Aspects, Design, and Applications

Abstract

Photo-thermal catalysis is among the most effective alternative pathways used to perform chemical reactions under solar irradiation. The synergistic contributions of heat and light during photo-thermal catalytic processes can effectively improve reaction efficiency and alter design selectivity, even under operational instability. The present review focuses on the recent advances in photo-thermal-driven chemical reactions, basic physics behind the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) formation and enhancement, pathways of charge carrier generation and transfer between plasmonic nanostructures and photo-thermal conversion, critical aspects influencing photo-thermal catalytic performance, tailored symmetry, and morphology engineering used to design efficient photo-thermal catalytic systems. By highlighting the multifield coupling benefits of plasmonic nanomaterials and semiconductor oxides, we summarized and discussed several recently developed photo-thermal catalysts and their catalytic performance in energy production (CO2 conversion and H2 dissociation), environmental protection (VOCs and dyes degradation), and organic compound synthesis (Olefins). Finally, the difficulties and future endeavors related to the design and engineering of photo-thermal catalysts were pointed out to draw the attention of researchers to this sustainable technology used for maximum solar energy utilization.

Solar‐Driven Continuous CO2 Reduction to CO and CH4 using Heterogeneous Photothermal Catalysts: Recent Progress and Remaining Challenges

“…As mentioned before, the introduction of (plasmonic) metal nanostructures can increase the performance of the catalyst through thermal and non-thermal contributions. [112][113][114] The catalyst support material and characteristics are an important factor in these contributions, as the support can accept hot carriers formed on the metal nanostructures, which are transferred over the potential energy barrier between the metal and semiconductor, also referred to as the Schottky junction. [48] This can slow down the recombination of the charge carriers formed.…”