An exceptionally durable and recyclable three-dimensional copper foam (CF) modified CuO nanorods with Au nanostructures on its surface is noticeable for the application in surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). The utilization of CF as a 3D frame substrate allowed for the advancement of its beneficial characteristics, such as an increased surface-active area resulting from its high porosity and superior chemical/physical stability. By thermally oxidizing CF at a temperature of 500 °C, CuO nanorods were fabricated directly onto CF to exploit its advantageous properties, such as its high surface-active area and photodegradation effect. Following that, Au nanostructures were deposited onto the surfaces of CuO nanorods via photoreduction. The purpose of incorporating Au nanostructures was to optimize the SERS phenomenon, since Au exhibits high SERS efficiency and excellent surface stability. The Au/CuO@CF SERS substrate demonstrated the capability to measure MB at a concentration of 0.1 nM. Meanwhile, the recyclability of the Au/CuO@CF was evaluated by subjecting it to UV irradiation three times while utilizing MB samples. Subsequently, the Au/CuO@CF substrate's physical durability was evaluated via sandpaper abrasion test. In addition to confirming the long-term usability, the Au/CuO@CF demonstrated its resilience by maintaining good measurement performance even after being subjected to ambient air for up to 25 days.
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