Plasmonic Heterojunction Photocatalysts for Hydrogen Generation: A Mini-Review

Abstract

Solar energy is one of the most rapidly growing energy technologies and is directly involved in transitioning toward a more sustainable society. Solar to hydrogen fuel generation via photocatalysis is ideal for addressing the energy crisis worldwide. It requires the discovery of new materials or a new combination of materials to efficiently harvest sunlight with maximum solar-tophoton conversion efficiency. Plasmonic catalysts have recently emerged as a new class of materials and are promising candidates for confining light in the nanoscale regimes via localized surface plasmon resonance effect. In this review, we have collated state-ofthe-art photocatalysts for hydrogen generation utilizing the combination of supports, including metal−organic framework (MOF), metal−organic matrix (MOM), g-C 3 N 4 , TiO 2 , MoS 2 , and WO 3 . The synthesis, characterization, and catalytic performance, along with the technical and novelty aspect, have been discussed. Finally, the future perspective section includes key directions to further improve the photocatalytic route of hydrogen generation by plasmonic catalysts.

2023 Pioneers in Energy Research: Shizhang Qiao

“…The review also discusses the drawbacks of existing devices based on hybrid organic–inorganic molecular systems and concludes the needed improvements to develop this technology. Verma et al collated state-of-the-art plasmonic catalysts for hydrogen generation utilizing the combination of various supports. They also discuss key perspectives to further improve the plasmonic catalysts.…”

Recent Progress of Studies on Photoconversion and Photothermal Conversion of CO2 with Single-Atom Catalysts

“…Following the separation of charges under photoexcitation, plasma-mediated processes are of great interest. , It is important to note that the hot carriers generated by local surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) have higher energy than those generated by direct photoexcitation. − In addition, this energy can be transferred internally by the carrier and dissipated by the surrounding environment, creating a thermal effect. , In addition, photothermal catalysis also includes low-energy visible and infrared light, which are not sufficient to facilitate photocatalytic reactions. On the other hand, due to the increase in the local temperature of the catalytic site due to photothermal catalysis, excellent catalytic efficiency can be produced under mild conditions.…”