Alchemically-glazed plasmonic nanocavities using atomic layer metals: controllably synergizing catalysis and plasmonics

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Plasmonic nanocavities offer exceptional confinement of light, making them effective for energy conversion applications. However, limitations with stability, materials, and chemical activity have impeded their practical implementation. Here we integrate ultrathin palladium (Pd) metal films from sub- to few- atomic monolayers inside plasmonic nanocavities using underpotential deposition. Despite the poor plasmonic properties of bulk Pd in the visible region, minimal loss in optical field enhancement is delivered along with Pd chemical enhancement, as confirmed by ab initio calculations. Such synergistic effects significantly enhance photocatalytic activity of the plasmonic nanocavities as well as photostability by suppressing surface atom migration. We show the atomic alchemical-glazing approach is general for a range of catalytic metals that bridge plasmonic and chemical catalysis, yielding broad applications in photocatalysis for optimal chemical transformation.

Source: Nature Communications

DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-58578-9

Authors: Shu Hu, Eric S. A. Goerlitzer, Qianqi Lin, Bart de Nijs, Vyacheslav M. Silkin, Jeremy J. Baumberg

Institutions: Xiamen University, University of Cambridge, Ikerbasque, University of the Basque Country, Donostia International Physics Center

Language: English

Topic: Plasmonic and Surface Plasmon Research

Subfield: Biomedical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $6,990

Funders: Diamond Light Source, Research Councils UK, European Commission, Xiamen University, Deutsche Akademie der Naturforscher Leopoldina - Nationale Akademie der Wissenschaften, Horizon 2020 Framework Programme, Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, Agencia Estatal de Investigación, Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities

OpenAlex ID: W4409285083