Plasmonic-metal/2D-semiconductor hybrids for photodetection and photocatalysis in energy-related and environmental processes

Tunable plasmonic metals and semiconductor nanomaterials remain predominant as inorganic catalytic materials for photochemistry. In particular, atomically thin two-dimensional (2D) semiconductor nanomaterials have opened up a new horizon of possibilities for photodetection and photocatalysis devices. In this context, the present review focuses on the fundamentals of plasmonic-metal/2D-semiconductor hybrids and their applications for state-of-the-art photodetectors and photocatalysis devices. Recent developments, intrinsic features, and unique advantages of 2D semiconductors, plasmonic metals, and their nanocomposites for photodetection and photocatalysis fields are introduced, followed by an overview of synthesis strategies. Then, their nanophotonics-related properties are discussed from the propagating (local) surface plasmon polaritons of metallic nanostructures to the interfacial properties of the hybrids, especially in terms of relevant fundamental principles and influencing factors. Furthermore, primary factors and strategies for regulating their photochemistry-related properties are examined from the perspective of plasmonic energy transfer between their interfaces. Moreover, recent advances in the use of plasmonic-metal/2D-semiconductor nanocomposites in photodetection and photocatalysis for energy-related and environmental processes, including photocatalytic water splitting, CO₂ reduction, N₂ fixation, organic synthesis, and pollutant degradation or removal, are highlighted. Finally, perspectives on the challenges and future avenues of exploration for overcoming critical bottlenecks are presented based on recent achievements in the development of plasmonic-metal/2D-semiconductor hybrids.