Plasmonic materials for energy: from physics to applications

摘要: Physical mechanisms unique to plasmonic materials, which can be exploited for the existing and emerging applications of plasmonics renewable energy technologies, are reviewed. The hybrid nature surface plasmon (SP) modes - propagating polaritons (SPPs) localized plasmons (LSPs) as collective photon-electron oscillations makes them attractive candidates applications. High density optical states in vicinity structures enhances light absorption emission, enables heating, drives near-field heat exchange between hot cold surfaces. SP channel absorbed photons directly free electrons, generated electrons utilized thermoelectric, photovoltaic photo-catalytic platforms. Advantages disadvantages using over conventional technologies solar waste harvesting discussed, areas where is expected lead performance improvements not achievable by other methods identified.