Recyclable Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering Substrate-Based Sensors for Various Applications

Surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) has been widely used for detection and characterization benefiting from its high sensitivity and selectivity (molecular fingerprint information). However, the strong adsorption of target molecules ("memory effect") on the nanoparticle surface inherently limits the recycle of SERS substrates. This paper focuses on the different strategies to achieve recyclable SERS substrates and their applications. First, the problems of nonrecyclable SERS substrates are discussed systematically. Then, two categories are summarized to achieve recyclable SERS substrates and their applications: (1) chemical-free cleaning methods (including photocatalytic degradation, thermal cleaning, and plasma treatment) and (2) chemical-assisted cleaning methods (including solvent washing, chemical reaction, and electrochemistry). Moreover, we put forward current challenges and potential strategies of recyclable SERS substrates.