SERS-active materials

SERS-active materials are special types of substances that enhance a technique called Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS). This method is used to analyze tiny amounts of molecules by increasing the intensity of their vibrational signals, making them easier to detect. SERS-active materials, often made from metals like gold or silver, create a strong electromagnetic field when light hits them. This field boosts the signals from nearby molecules, allowing scientists to identify and study materials at extremely low concentrations. These materials are crucial for applications in chemistry, biology, environmental monitoring, and medical diagnostics.