In their PCCP perspective on nanogap-enhanced SERS, Natelson, Li and Herzog discuss the rich and fascinating plasmonic physics at work in these systems.
Extended electrode structures incorporating nanogaps provide additional functionality for SERS studies beyond acting purely as plasmonic substrates. In tip-surface systems like those used for TERS, the ability to image the surface through scanned-probe techniques makes it possible to perform single- or few-molecule studies without relying on indirect or statistical arguments.
The authors make the comparison of experimental results with theoretical expectations an important thread in their discussion. Looking to the future, they predict that the bonding of Raman spectroscopy, electronic transport techniques and advanced theoretical treatments will be a profitable union for years to come.
Read this fascinating perspective today:
Nanogap structures: combining enhanced Raman spectroscopy and electronic transport
Douglas Natelson, Yajing Li and Joseph B. Herzog
DOI: 10.1039/C3CP44142C
