Nanostructures and Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy

Abstract

The optical properties of metallic nanostructures are particularly important for the field of nanoscience and technology. Excitation of the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) of metallic surfaces having nanoscale features results in local electro magnetic (EM) field enhancement, which dramatically increases the signal observed from molecules adsorbed to the surface of plasmonic nanostructures. This chapter focuses on a technique that takes advantage of this effect, namely surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). We first introduce the physical basis of the LSPR, with particular attention to the dielectric function of plasmonic materials as it relates to nanoparticle extinction. Next, we focus on the relationships among LSPR, EM enhancement, and SERS – highlighting both fundamental and applied experiments. Finally, we turn our attention to the future of SERS, including studies involving new materials, nanostructures, and techniques.