Electrodeposited gold thin-films on ITO electrodes as a platform for decoupling thermal and hot carrier mechanisms in plasmon-assisted electrochemistry

• Grant number: 25/15491-7
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Visiting Researcher Grant - International
• Start date: November 01, 2025
• End date: March 07, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Physical-Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Susana Inés Córdoba de Torresi
• Grantee: Susana Inés Córdoba de Torresi
• Visiting researcher: Philippe Allongue
• Visiting researcher institution: Centre National De La Recherche Scientifique/Cnrs, France
• Host Institution: Instituto de Química (IQ). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 21/00675-4 - Tying up materials for electrochemical energy storage and catalysis, AP.TEM

Abstract

A sustainable hydrogen economy depends on the efficient generation of green hydrogen via water electrolysis powered by renewable energies. Enhancing electrocatalytic processes through plasmon-assisted electrochemistry, particularly by utilizing hot electron generation in plasmonic nanoparticles, offers a promising route. In this context, electrodeposited gold thin films on ITO-coated glass substrates represent a promising platform for investigating and decoupling thermal and non-thermal (hot carrier) mechanisms in plasmon-assisted electrochemistry. Despite clear evidence that localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) boosts catalytic activity, distinguishing between the effects of hot carriers and localized heating remains challenging. Addressing this gap requires precise control over nanoparticle-substrate interactions and time-resolved studies to elucidate the processes involved. This understanding is essential to optimize plasmon-enhanced electrocatalytic systems and further advance sustainable hydrogen production technologies. (AU)