Solid matrices for surface-enhanced raman spectroscopy
AssigneeAvalon Instruments Limited
InventorSteven Ernest John Bell
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Abstract
A method of forming a solid matrix for use with surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy is described. The method comprises the steps of: admixing a colloidal metal solution with a polymeric support medium to form a suspension; optionally depositing said suspension on a surface; and then drying the suspension to form the matrix. The polymeric support medium provides a plymer/sol suspension in which the sol particles are resistant to aggregation and precipitation. Upon drying the suspension shrinks to provide a mechanically-hard film subsequently usable to provide a sample for spectroscopic analysis.
Claims34
A method of forming a solid matrix for use with surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, comprising the steps of:
- admixing a colloidal metal solution with a hydrophilic polymeric support medium to form a suspension;
- and drying the suspension to form the matrix.
A solid matrix for use with surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, which matrix includes metal particles and a hydrophilic polymeric support medium.
A method of preparing a sample for analysis by surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, comprising the steps of:
- providing a solid matrix for use with surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, which matrix includes metal particles and a hydrophilic polymeric support medium;
- and adding a solvent to the matrix.
A method of forming a suspension for use with surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, comprising the step of:
- admixing a colloidal metal solution with a polymeric support medium to form the suspension.
A suspension for use with surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, which suspension includes metal particles and a polymeric support medium.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.