Plasmonic Photocatalysis:
Integrating Light into Catalytic Chemistry
Our lab is exploring dilute plasmonic alloy photocatalysts as sustainable alternatives to traditional industrial thermocatalysts for reactions of broad societal relevance. These nanomaterials pair optically active plasmonic host metals (Cu, Ag, Au) with low concentrations of transition metal dopants from the iron and platinum groups. By designing active sites down to the single-atom limit, we significantly reduce precious metal usage without compromising reactivity or selectivity.
Importantly, we’ve found that single-atom dopants—unlike their ensemble counterparts—offer a more efficient platform for radiative energy transfer from incident light to the adsorbate, enhancing photocatalytic performance. While practical applications drive our materials development, our broader mission is to deepen the fundamental understanding of this emerging class of photocatalysts.
We investigate the synthesis, operational stability, and mechanisms of energy transfer—from plasmonic excitation to isolated active sites and, ultimately, surface-bound reactants that undergo transformation. Despite recent progress, many open questions remain in plasmonic photochemistry, especially regarding how to fully harness visible light for sustainable chemical manufacturing.
Plasmonic photocatalysts are already demonstrating remarkable versatility and are progressing toward commercialization. Our group focuses on their application in reactions such as carbon dioxide conversion, ammonia synthesis, hydrogen evolution, and the valorization of small, abundant molecules like propane and methane. Through precision engineering of active sites in dilute alloys, we aim to tailor catalytic properties and expand the utility of plasmonic photocatalysis across a wide range of transformations.
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2145 Sheridan Road
Catalysis Center 217
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL 60208
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Get in Touch
For any inquiries about our work please direct emails to Prof. Dayne Swearer
dayne.swearer [at] northwestern [dot] edu