Optimal Geometry for Plasmonic Hot-Carrier Extraction in Metal–Semiconductor Nanocrystals

Plasmon-induced energy and charge transfer from metal nanostructures hold great potential for harvesting solar energy. Presently, the efficiencies of charge-carrier extraction are still low due to the competitive ultrafast mechanisms of plasmon relaxation. Using single-particle electron energy loss spectroscopy, we correlate the geometrical and compositional details of individual nanostructures to their carrier extraction efficiencies. By removing ensemble effects, we are able to show a direct structure-function relationship that permits the rational design of the most efficient metal-semiconductor nanostructures for energy harvesting applications. In particular, by developing a hybrid system comprising Au nanorods with epitaxially grown CdSe tips, we are able to control and enhance charge extraction. We show that optimal structures can have efficiencies as high as 45%. The quality of the Au-CdSe interface and the dimensions of the Au rod and CdSe tip are shown to be critical for achieving these high efficiencies of chemical interface damping.