Architecting Light for Catalysis: Emerging Frontiers in Plasmonic-Photonic Crystal Hybrids for Solar Energy Conversion

Abstract

Plasmonic photonic crystal (PPC) photocatalysts have emerged as a promising class of materials that integrate nanoscale light management with catalytic functionality for solardriven chemical conversions. By combining the electromagnetic field enhancement of plasmonic nanostructures with the photon manipulation capabilities of photonic crystals, PPCs effectively address key limitations of traditional semiconductor photocatalysts, including limited visible light absorption and rapid charge recombination. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in PPCs. It outlines the fundamental physical principles of plasmonics, photonic bandgap effects, and their synergistic interactions in hybrid systems. A range of fabrication strategies, from bottom-up self-assembly to top-down lithography, is presented with an emphasis on achieving structural precision and spectral alignment. The discussion also covers advanced design concepts such as hierarchical architectures, multifunctional plasmonic catalysts, and dynamically tunable photonic structures. These innovations have drastically improved photocatalytic performance under visible light, particularly in applications involving total water splitting, hydrogen evolution reaction, and carbon dioxide reduction. In addition, this review critically examines ongoing challenges, including achieving long-term stability, developing scalable fabrication techniques, and enhancing the utilization of light and photogenerated charge carriers. It concludes by proposing future research directions, ranging from the exploration of earth-abundant plasmonic materials to the integration of PPCs into functional device architectures. Overall, plasmonic photonic crystals offer a transformative strategy for solar fuel production by enabling precise control over light-matter interactions, and this review aims to support the rational design of next-generation hybrid photocatalysts for efficient and sustainable energy applications.