Compositions, devices and methods for SERS and LSPR
The present invention relates to compositions, devices and methods for detecting microorganisms (e.g., anthrax). In particular, the present invention provides portable, surface-enhanced Raman biosensors, and associated substrates, and methods of using the same, for use in rapidly detecting and identifying microorganisms (e.g., anthrax).
1. A sensor comprising:
i) a substrate,
ii) nanospheres deposited on the substrate,
iii) a silver film over the nanospheres, and
iv) an alumina layer coated over the silver film;
wherein the alumina layer is the top layer of the sensor.
2. The sensor of claim 1 , wherein the alumina is layer is of Angstrom thickness.
3. The sensor of claim 1 , wherein the silver film underlies the alumina.
4. The sensor of claim 1 , wherein said sensor is a surface-enhanced Raman biosensor.
5. The sensor of claim 1 , wherein said substrate comprises a glass surface.
6. The sensor of claim 1 , wherein said nanosphere has a diameter of 390-720 nm.
7. The sensor of claim 1 , wherein said nanosphere has a diameter of 500-700 nm.
8. The sensor of claim 1 , wherein said silver film has a mass thickness of 200 nm.