Principles of surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) has manifested its power in clinical applications, benefitted from the ability to provide fingerprint information even down to single-molecule level. In this chapter, we will guide you through the principles of SERS, including the electromagnetic field enhancement and chemical enhancement, with emphasis on the surface plasmon resonance effect. Some practical issues, such as spectral analysis and selection of SERS substrates, will also be briefed from the mechanistic understanding. The main purpose of this chapter is to provide you the necessary background to understand the literatures and start your own journey of applying SERS for clinical diagnosis.