Chapter 11: Plasmonic Photocatalysts for Environmental Applications

There is a continued and growing interest in sustaining and improving our environment. Research scientists are exploring new avenues using plasmonic photocatalysts as a way to catapult advances in the field. Plasmonic photocatalysts have gained significant attention in recent decades owing to the phenomena associated with localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR). Gold (Au), silver (Ag), and copper (Cu) are the most widely studied and will be highlighted in this chapter. This chapter includes fundamental concepts related to LSPR and the significance of employing plasmons as a method to increase photocatalytic reaction rates and improve product selectivity. Plasmon-enhanced catalytic reaction types including C–X bond activation and low carbon footprint applications are highlighted in this chapter. This chapter does not include an exhaustive list of applications for which plasmonic photocatalysts can be used, but rather provides insight into the vast possibilities of how phenomena related to LSPR and plasmon-enhanced catalytic processes can have a lasting effect on how we store, use, and convert energy in chemical bonds.