One‐step facile synthesis of PbS quantum dots/Pb (DMDC)2 hybrids and their application as a low‐cost SERS substrate

Abstract

AbstractA microwave‐ and ultrasound‐assisted reduction and assembly of lead dimethyldithiocarbamate (Pb (DMDC)2) led to the formation of rod‐like Pb (DMDC)2 embedded with PbS quantum dots (QDs). Transmission electron microscopy measurements show the presence of numerous isolated PbS QDs on the Pb (DMDC)2 microrod surface, which may potentially act as hot spots for enhanced Raman spectroscopy. A case study using mercaptopyridine as the analyte demonstrates that the rod‐like hybrids have outstanding performance as a surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrate, comparable with that of Au nanorods. The excellent SERS performance of the as‐fabricated PbS QDs/Pb (DMDC)2 hybrids may be attributed to the unique dispersion of PbS QDs as well as the intimate contacts between PbS QDs and Pb (DMDC)2. This study therefore presents a new approach for the development of low‐cost and highly efficient semiconductor‐based SERS substrates.