Surface plasmon-enhanced photochemical reactions

• Review for advanced studies on surface plasmon-enhanced photochemical reactions.
• Nano-lithography based on spatially selective photochemical reactions.
• Two-photon-induced photochemical reactions by a weak incoherent light source.
• Concept for utilization of photons and contribution to green nanotechnology.
• Plasmon-enhanced photocatalytic reactions and water splitting.

The electromagnetic field enhancement effect based on the excitation of localized surface plasmon resonance was developed for various photochemical reaction systems, such as nano-lithography, photovoltaic cells, photocatalysis, and water splitting systems. As with most points characteristic of these surface plasmon-enhanced photochemical reactions, spatially selective photochemical reactions can be induced and photons can be efficiently utilized, a concept that could contribute to the development of green nanotechnology. Electromagnetic field enhancement effects based on plasmon excitation have contributed not only to physical processes, such as excitation efficiency, but also to chemical processes, such as photo-induced electron transfer reactions. This review article describes advanced studies on a wide variety of surface plasmon-enhanced photochemical reactions.