About
Raman spectroscopy, an analytical method based on the study of vibration modes of materials, is very suitable for the determination of organic compounds. However, the weak Raman strength limited its applicability for several decades until the Surface Enhanced Raman scattering technique (SERS) was developed. Enhancement capacity is strongly dependent upon prepared SERS substrates. The main limitation of most SERS substrates is poor repeatability, which is difficult for applying in quantitative analysis.
Currently, 1D structures have been reported as effective SERS substrates with higher repeatability and better enhancement coefficient. A larger hot spot density, the effect of geometric anisotropy and interface effect between semiconductor and noble metal are expected to contribute to enhancement of the Raman signal by these 1D structures. In this research we propose to prepare nanocomposite semiconductor/noble metal for sensing some toxics in civil water. 1D nanocomposites based on semiconductor oxides such as ZnO, CuO and noble metals (Au, Ag) will be studied for SERS applications. Facile fabrication processes such as thermal evaporation, thermal oxidation, hydrothermal along with low cost materials are the big advantages for expanding scale toward comercializing the product. The as-prepared nanostructures would offer SERS substrates of high sensitivity and repeatability for quantifying toxic substances in water conveniently even at low concentration.
