Artificial Photosynthesis Systems Utilizing Localized Surface Plasmon

Abstract

The construction of a light-energy conversion system that employs sunlight for renewable energy is required for the realization of a low-carbon society. Artificial photosynthesis, which stores solar energy as a stable chemical and enables energy use when required, is an important subject. Recently, studies on artificial photosynthesis systems utilizing localized surface plasmon such as hydrogen evolution and ammonia synthesis have received considerable attention. Especially, it is known that ammonia is useful as an energy carrier to realize the hydrogen society. In this review, we introduce the plasmon-induced artificial photosynthesis that generates hydrogen from water and ammonia from protons and atmospheric nitrogen by visible light under normal temperature and pressure.