Metal-molecule Schottky junction effects in surface enhanced Raman scattering

J Phys Chem A. 2011 Jan 27;115(3):318-28. doi: 10.1021/jp1065083. Epub 2010 Dec 28.

Abstract

We propose a complementary interpretation of the mechanism responsible for the strong enhancement observed in surface enhanced raman scattering (SERS). The effect of a strong static local electric field due to the Schottky barrier at the metal-molecule junction on SERS is systematically investigated. The study provides a viable explanation to the low repeatability of SERS experiments as well as the Raman peak shifts as observed in SERS and raw Raman spectra. It was found that a strong electrostatic built-in field at the metal-molecule junction along specific orientations can result in 2-4 more orders of enhancement in SERS.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Metals / chemistry*
  • Spectrum Analysis, Raman / methods*
  • Surface Properties

Substances

  • Metals