Plasmon-mediated photochemical transformation of inorganic nanocrystals. (September 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zhu, Yameng; Guan, Mengdan; Wang, Jin; Sheng, Huixiang; Chen, Yaqi; Liang, Yan; Peng, Qiming; Lu, Gang
• Is Part Of: Applied materials today. Volume 24(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-09
• Subjects: Nanocrystal transformation -- Surface plasmon -- Growth of nanocrystals -- Site-selective etching -- Phase transition; Materials science -- Periodicals; Materials -- Research -- Periodicals; 620.1105
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apmt.2021.101125
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2352-9407

Abstract

Highlight: The plasmon-mediated transformation of inorganic nanocrystals, including controlled synthesis, etching, and phase transition, has been reviewed. Working principle of the surface plasmon in inorganic nanocrystal transformation has been fully discussed. Applications of the surface plasmon in growth, etching and phase transition of inorganic nanocrystals are comprehensively reviewed. Remaining challenges and future opportunities in the field of inorganic nanocrystal transformation are discussed. Abstract: Owing to the extraordinary optical properties, plasmonic nanostructures have been applied in many fields, particularly in triggering or accelerating chemical reactions. Because of the unique features of the surface plasmon, various inorganic nanomaterials, especially the ones with complex nanostructures, have been obtained with the assistance of plasmon excitation, producing nanocrystals that are difficult to fabricate by traditional methods. Writing up a comprehensive and timely review on this topic is essential to its further developments. This review summarizes the principle of plasmon excitation and its contribution in the growth, etching, and phase transition of inorganic nanocrystals. First, the excitation of surface plasmon is introduced, followed by the discussion of three effects, localization of electromagnetic field, excitation of hot carriers, and local heating, in plasmon-mediated transformation of nanocrystals. Then, the applications of surface plasmon in nanocrystal transformation are fully introduced in five categories, controlled growth of metal nanocrystals, controlled growth of oxide nanocrystals, growth of chiral nanostructures, site-selective etching of nanocrystals, and phase transition of nanocrystals. Finally, remaining challenges and future opportunities in this field are discussed. This review will benefit the fabrication of various-shaped inorganic nanocrystals and their applications in diverse fields. Graphic Abstract: Image, graphical abstract