Investigation of catalysis effects on plasmonic metal nanoparticles

This thesis investigates the photocatalytic properties of plasmonic gold (Au) and silver (Ag) nanoparticles synthesized using the Pulsed Laser Deposition (PLD) method. Plasmonic nanoparticles are known for their ability to enhance photocatalytic activity through localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR), which amplifies light absorption and improves charge carrier dynamics. Au and Ag nanoparticles were deposited onto various substrates under controlled PLD conditions, including laser fluence, substrate temperature, and ambient gas pressure, enabling precise control over their size, morphology, and distribution. Characterization techniques such as UV-Vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were employed to evaluate the structural and optical properties of the nanoparticles. The results demonstrated that the PLD process produces uniform nanoparticles with tunable LSPR peaks, confirming the critical role of particle size and shape in optimizing photocatalytic efficiency. The photocatalytic performance of the Au and Ag nanoparticles was evaluated by monitoring the degradation of organic pollutants under light irradiation. The plasmonic nanoparticles significantly enhanced photocatalytic reactions by facilitating increased light absorption and promoting electron transfer processes. This study highlights the potential of PLD as a versatile and precise technique for producing plasmonic nanoparticles tailored for photocatalytic applications. The findings provide valuable insights into the relationship between nanoparticle properties and photocatalytic performance, contributing to the development of efficient photocatalysts for applications in energy conversion and environmental remediation.