Non-resonant Plasmon Energy Transfer Processes for Catalysis

Abstract How can energy transfer catalysis be extended beyond molecular photosensitizers to more robust, tunable systems? In this study, we investigate whether plasmonic nanostructures can serve as universal energy donors to activate redox-inert gold(I) complexes relevant to photo-driven catalysis. Using a molecular mediator, we demonstrate that localized energy from gold nanoparticles can be transferred through a two-step Dexter-type mechanism to generate the reactive first triplet metal-to-ligand charge-transfer state of the gold complex, even under non-resonant excitation. Spectroscopic analyses confirm the formation and lifetime of this excited state and reveal emission-based signatures of successful energy transfer. These results establish a mechanistic foundation for plasmon-enabled activation and open new possibilities for designing catalytic systems where precise energetic control and compatibility with a broad range of substrates are critical.