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

Author

Listed:
  • Shu Hu

    (Xiamen University
    University of Cambridge)

  • Eric S. A. Goerlitzer

    (University of Cambridge)

  • Qianqi Lin

    (University of Cambridge)

  • Bart Nijs

    (University of Cambridge)

  • Vyacheslav M. Silkin

    (Donostia International Physics Center
    Universidad del País Vasco
    IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science)

  • Jeremy J. Baumberg

    (University of Cambridge)

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.

Suggested Citation

  • Shu Hu & Eric S. A. Goerlitzer & Qianqi Lin & Bart Nijs & Vyacheslav M. Silkin & Jeremy J. Baumberg, 2025. "Alchemically-glazed plasmonic nanocavities using atomic layer metals: controllably synergizing catalysis and plasmonics," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-10, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-025-58578-9
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-58578-9
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