Plasmonic photocatalysis

Plasmonic photocatalysis is a dynamic field of research devoted to the activation of chemical transformations thanks to the unique optoelectronic features of plasmonic nanomaterials such as their high electromagnetic field enhancements or their ability to generate nonthermalized charge carriers and localized temperature gradients. The use of these objects as photocatalysts can lead to new reactivities when compared with classical heterogeneous photocatalysts, including an unprecedented control over efficiency and chemical selectivity within a broader range of the solar spectrum.  Our research is devoted to understanding the physical mechanisms behind such processes toward their implementation in different chemcialr eactions such as organic transfromations, the activation of small molecules or the etching and growth of inorganic nanostructures.