Electrochemical Observation Of The Plasmonic Effect In Photochromic Ag Nanoparticle Filled Mesoporous Tio2 Films

We report photoelectrochemical measurements from mesoporous titanium dioxide filled with silver nanoparticles under illumination. A 200 mV potential switch of silver ion reduction is observed, depending on light wavelength. An easier reduction of silver in the presence of light is linked to plasmon induced charge separation (PICS). SEM and TEM analysis before and after photoelectrochemistry have also shown an electrochemical Ostwald ripening during continuous visible irradiation, with a growth of silver particles at the sample surface. The combined use of mesoporous structures and electrochemical characterization enabled the change in silver reactivity during PICS to be quantified and emphasizes the role of plasmon in photochromism.