Embedding of Catalytically Active Nanoparticles into Superstructures of Plasmonic Nanoparticles to Enhance the Photocatalytic Activity

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This patent describes a device and a manufacturing method for heterogeneous plasmonic photocatalysis. The device consists of a superstructure (crystalline or quasi-crystalline) made up of plasmonic nanoparticles arranged on a substrate, with catalytically active nanoparticles embedded within the superstructure. This structure leverages the strong light absorption and field enhancement abilities of plasmonic nanoparticles and the catalytic properties of the embedded nanoparticles (e.g., platinum, palladium). The approach aims to significantly enhance photocatalytic reactions by efficiently harvesting and converting light into chemical energy, such as for hydrogen production.

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• Photocatalytic hydrogen generation for clean fuel applications (e.g., splitting water or decomposing formic acid).
• Sunlight-driven chemical synthesis, such as selective oxidation or reduction reactions in chemical manufacturing.
• Environmental cleanup, such as degradation of pollutants through enhanced photocatalytic processes.
• Solar energy harvesting and conversion technologies, where chemical energy is produced directly from sunlight.
• Design of advanced catalytic surfaces for fuel cells and other energy devices.

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• Enables significantly enhanced photocatalytic reaction rates compared to conventional catalysts, especially under sunlight.
• Combines the light-harvesting efficiency of plasmonic materials with the catalytic activity of metals like platinum, resulting in synergistic effects.
• Well-ordered superstructures allow for precise tuning of nanoparticle properties, improving performance and minimizing losses.
• Thin-film format is scalable and facilitates removal or replacement of the catalyst.
• Manufacturing method is based on self-assembly and colloidal chemistry, avoiding expensive or complex lithography and making the process more cost-effective.
• Broad absorption range (visible to near-infrared) allows efficient use of solar energy.
• Increased stability and accessibility of catalytic sites, especially with optional silica protective coatings.

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Patent Abstract

The present invention relates to a device for heterogeneous plasmonic photocatalysis. The device comprises a crystalline or quasi-crystalline superstructure of plasmonic nanoparticles attached to a substrate, and a plurality of catalytically active nanoparticles embedded into the superstructure of plasmonic nanoparticles. Further, the invention relates to a method of manufacturing the device for heterogeneous plasmonic photocatalysis.