Surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS)

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a technique that amplifies the detection of molecules by using specially prepared metal surfaces, typically gold or silver. When light hits these surfaces, it causes a strong increase in the Raman signals—unique molecular fingerprints—making it easier to identify and analyze tiny amounts of substances. This enhancement allows for highly sensitive detection, often at the single-molecule level, useful in fields like chemistry, biology, and medical diagnostics. Essentially, SERS boosts the signals from molecules near metal surfaces, enabling more precise and sensitive material analysis.