Non-Noble Plasmonic Metal-Based Photocatalysts

Solar-to-chemical energy conversion via heterogeneous photocatalysis is one of the sustainable approaches to tackle the growing environmental and energy challenges. Among various promising photocatalytic materials, plasmonic-driven photocatalysts feature prominent solar-driven surface plasmon resonance (SPR). Non-noble plasmonic metals (NNPMs)-based photocatalysts have been identified as a unique alternative to noble metal-based ones due to their advantages like earth-abundance, cost-effectiveness, and large-scale application capability. This review comprehensively summarizes the most recent advances in the synthesis, characterization, and properties of NNPMs-based photocatalysts. After introducing the fundamental principles of SPR, the attributes and functionalities of NNPMs in governing surface/interfacial photocatalytic processes are presented. Next, the utilization of NNPMs-based photocatalytic materials for the removal of pollutants, water splitting, CO2 reduction, and organic transformations is discussed. The review concludes with current challenges and perspectives in advancing the NNPMs-based photocatalysts, which are timely and important to plasmon-based photocatalysis, a truly interdisciplinary field across materials science, chemistry, and physics.

Automated summary

This review comprehensively summarizes the recent advances and applications of non-noble plasmonic metal (NNPMs)-based photocatalysts. By introducing the principles of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and discussing the functionalities and attributes of NNPMs in photocatalysis, their applications in pollutant removal, water splitting, CO2 reduction, and organic transformations are explored. The review concludes by addressing the current challenges and future prospects in the field of plasmon-based photocatalysis, emphasizing its interdisciplinary nature across materials science, chemistry, and physics.