Progress in thermoplasmonics for solar energy applications

Abstract

Plasmonics offer unprecedented control over light and stimulate fundamental research and engineering applications in solar energy. The surface plasmon resonance is responsible for both enhanced light scattering and absorption. The plasmon excitations in nanostructures can be tuned to control the hot-carrier emission. The damping dissipation of the kinetic energy of surface plasmons releases heat at nanoscale, which can be used to create high-performance nano-heaters and/or radiators. Spectrally and/or thermally engineered plasmonic nanomaterials attract considerable attention for solar energy application due to their distinct thermoplasmonic properties. In light of these advances, this paper provides a critical review of current research in thermoplasmonics with focus on its physic mechanisms, structure tuning strategies and solar energy applications. Basic mechanism of thermoplasmonics is described from the photothermal conversion and heat transfer physics to thermal-induced processes. Structure tuning strategies including self-tunable plasmons, plasmon coupling strategies and active plasmons with tunable gap distances are then fully discussed in terms of their principles and structures. Based on the flourishing development of novel thermoplasmonic structures, potential applications ranging from solar collector, solar radiator, thermo-photovoltaic, solar desalination and sterilization, solar degradation and catalysis, to solar fuels, and solar fertilizers are additionally highlighted. The advantages of using plasmonics over the conventional technologies are identified, and the areas where important basics involved when the thermoplasmonics bringing into application are stressed throughout the text. Finally, we provide our views on future challenges in solar thermoplasmonics, together with a few suggestions for further developments of this technology. This work would bring new insights and inspire innovative works on designing thermoplasmonics for solar energy application.