LMU researchers have made a significant stride in the realm of green hydrogen production, unveiling a groundbreaking two-dimensional supercrystal that sets a world record for hydrogen generation using sunlight. Led by Professor Emiliano Cortés, the team at LMU's Nano-Institute utilized high-performance nanostructures, specifically plasmonic nanostructures, to harness solar energy with unprecedented efficiency.

In their study published in Nature Catalysis, the researchers detail the creation of this supercrystal, which leverages gold and platinum nanoparticles at the nanoscale. By exploiting the resonant oscillation of electrons in gold particles when exposed to visible light, the team generated highly localized electric fields, referred to as "hotspots." To maximize this effect, platinum nanoparticles were strategically placed in the interspaces between the gold particles.

What makes this development groundbreaking is its potential to revolutionize green hydrogen production. Hydrogen, a key player in the energy transition, is currently predominantly produced from fossil fuels. The LMU researchers' plasmonic nanostructures offer an innovative approach to harnessing solar energy for hydrogen production, marking a pivotal step towards greener and more sustainable practices.

Professor Cortés and his colleague Dr. Matías Herran emphasize that their material development goes beyond hydrogen production, envisioning applications in industrial processes such as converting CO2 into usable substances. The researchers have already patented their innovative technology, paving the way for its potential integration into various industrial applications and contributing to the global pursuit of cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions.

Based on: https://www.sciencedaily.com