Abstract

Surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) sensors provide tremendous sensitivity and specificity enabling a large number of analytical applications. They work well with analytes that have good affinity towards the plasmonic nanostructures that support SERS. For molecules that have little or no affinity to the nanostructures, additional surface functionalization is necessary. Carrying out surface functionalization within a highly confined plasmonic nanocavity is challenging and a number of factors must be taken into account in the design of SERS devices. Here, we highlight the general design considerations for fit-for-purpose SERS devices in order to meet the operational requirement of a user.

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