Surface Plasmon Resonance-Mediated Photocatalytic H2 Generation

The limited yield of H-2 production has posed a significant challenge in contemporary research. To address this issue, researchers have turned to the application of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) materials in photocatalytic H-2 generation. SPR, arising from collective electron oscillations, enhances light absorption and facilitates efficient separation and transfer of electron-hole pairs in semiconductor systems, thereby boosting photocatalytic H-2 production efficiency. However, existing reviews predominantly focus on SPR noble metals, neglecting non-noble metals and SPR semiconductors. In this review, we begin by elucidating five different SPR mechanisms, covering hot electron injection, electric field enhancement, light scattering, plasmon-induced resonant energy transfer, and photo-thermionic effect, by which SPR enhances photocatalytic activity. Subsequently, a comprehensive overview follows, detailing the application of SPR materials-metals, non-noble metals, and SPR semiconductors-in photocatalytic H-2 production. Additionally, a personal perspective is offered on developing highly efficient SPR-based photocatalysis systems for solar-to-H-2 conversion in the future. This review aims to guide the development of next-gen SPR-based materials for advancing solar-to-fuel conversion.