Breakthrough in plasmonic enhanced MOFs: Design, synthesis, and catalytic mechanisms for various photocatalytic applications

Integrating metal-organic framework MOFs with plasmonic nanoparticles (NPs) addresses a significant shortcoming of standard plasmonic platforms: their low efficacy with non-adsorbing compounds. The corporation of porous MOFs complements the plasmonic characteristics, allowing for a broader range of applications. This study highlights recent advancements in the design, synthesis, structural engineering, and functional properties of heterostructures combining plasmonic NPs with MOFs, focusing on their plasmonic and catalytic reaction behaviors. These developments have greatly enhanced the protentional of plasmonic NPs-MOFs heterojunction in nanofabrication and various applications, such as chemical sensing techniques like localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and surface-enhanced infrared absorbance (SEIRA). Additionally, the study thoroughly examines the interface interaction and photocatalytic performance of plasmonic NPs-MOFs. Various practical applications of plasmonic NPs-MOFs heterojunction are explored, including their promising role in tackling environmental challenges like industrial water pollution. Furthermore, we have a detailed discussion of various photocatalysis processes, including water splitting, CO₂ reduction, pollutant degradation, and various sensing applications. Identifying current limitations and outlining future research directions to bridge existing knowledge gaps, including interface interaction, photocatalytic performance, and practical applications providing a comprehensive understanding, are the main aims of this review to inspire the development of next-generation plasmonic NPs-MOFs materials. It concludes by discussing future directions and challenges in composite development, emphasizing their potential to provide sustainable and efficient solutions for environmental remediation and energy conversion.