Sub-wavelength chemical imaging of a modified reaction due to vibrational strong coupling

This study explores the impact of vibrational strong coupling (VSC) on intrinsic physical and chemical properties of molecules within plasmonic nanocavities. We demonstrate how the formation of polariton states decreases the stage temperature required to induce the dehydration of copper sulfate pentahydrate by as much as 14˚C. Confocal Raman microscopy in conjunction with an “open” cavity design facilitated sub-wavelength spatial mapping of the modified chemistry, which was localized to regions with the largest local density of optical states (LDOS). These findings underline the role of strong light-matter hybridization for enhancing energy transport between the cavity substrate and the molecules, effectively eliminating their temperature difference. This research offers critical insights into the mechanisms of VSC-modified chemistry, paving the way for novel, tailor-made catalytic processes hinging on fine-tuned energy exchange.