Plasmon-mediated photochemical transformation of inorganic nanocrystals

Owing to the extraordinary optical properties, plasmonic nanostructures have been applied in many fields, particularly in triggering or accelerating chemical reactions. Because of the unique features of the surface plasmon, various inorganic nanomaterials, especially the ones with complex nanostructures, have been obtained with the assistance of plasmon excitation, producing nanocrystals that are difficult to fabricate by traditional methods. Writing up a comprehensive and timely review on this topic is essential to its further developments. This review summarizes the principle of plasmon excitation and its contribution in the growth, etching, and phase transition of inorganic nanocrystals. First, the excitation of surface plasmon is introduced, followed by the discussion of three effects, localization of electromagnetic field, excitation of hot carriers, and local heating, in plasmon-mediated transformation of nanocrystals. Then, the applications of surface plasmon in nanocrystal transformation are fully introduced in five categories, controlled growth of metal nanocrystals, controlled growth of oxide nanocrystals, growth of chiral nanostructures, site-selective etching of nanocrystals, and phase transition of nanocrystals. Finally, remaining challenges and future opportunities in this field are discussed. This review will benefit the fabrication of various-shaped inorganic nanocrystals and their applications in diverse fields.