Electrochemically Synthesized Porous Ag Double Layers for Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy Applications

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Abstract
Double-layered nanoporous silver is fabricated by dealloying an electrodeposited AgCu double-layer with different composition in each layer. The pore/ligament size and porosity of each layer can be conveniently tailored by controlling the applied voltage profile when electrodepositing the AgCu double-layer precursors. Therefore, nanoporous Ag double-layers with tailor-made porous profile along the film thickness can be easily fabricated. The Ag structures thus obtained are particularly attractive as novel multi-functional enhancement substrates for surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) applications. When a higher porosity is created in the top layer, the double layer can trap more light due to the anti-reflection effect, enabling stronger SERS enhancement. On the other hand, with smaller pores formed in the top layer, the double layer readily works as a size-screening SERS substrate that can help distinguish SERS signals from a mixture of reagents with different sizes. The theoretical simulation shows good agreement with the experimental observation.
Funding Information
  • City University of Hong Kong (7005077)
  • Innovation and Technology Commission - Hong Kong

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