Abstract: The present invention provides a nanostructured substrate for SERS. A substrate of the invention comprises a surface featuring substantially monodisperse-sized metal nanoparticles disposed thereon. Preferably, the substrate surface provides for SERS and spectra therefrom. For example, a nanostructured substrate of the invention can be used to reproducibly and reliably detect or identify pathogens, molecules or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, a nanostructured substrate of the invention comprises a surface featuring metal nanoparticles substantially aggregated in clusters thereon. Exemplary metal nanoparticles disposed on the substrate surface can be silver, copper, gold or combinations thereof. Metal nanoparticles disposed on a substrate surface can also be substantially spheroidal comprising diameters in a range from about 40 to 120 nm.

Abstract: A Raman scattering spectrographic analyzer wherein a microscope objective is adapted to view single bio-specimens on a substrate having monodispersed-sized metal particles. A defined wavelength of radiation is applied through the microscope and returning radiation resulting from Raman scattering by bio-specimens is applied to a spectrometer operative to provide a signal corresponding to the wavelength components in said Raman scattered or shifted radiation. The spread spectrum of the Raman shift is analyzed for identification of a bio-specimen.

Abstract: A Raman scattering spectrographic analyzer wherein a microscope objective is adapted to view single bio-specimens on a substrate having monodispersed-sized metal particles. A defined wavelength of radiation is applied through the microscope and returning radiation resulting from Raman scattering by bio-specimens is applied to a spectrometer operative to provide a signal corresponding to the wavelength components in said Raman scattered or shifted radiation. The spread spectrum of the Raman shift is analyzed for identification of a bio-specimen.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a method of making and using a porous solid matrix for trapping metal nanoparticles for use in detection, identification and quantification of trace levels of water contaminants using surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). The metal nanoparticles are polydispersed in the porous solid matrix, sufficiently separated to prevent conduction, in creating a broad area of excited electrons in response to applied radiation. In one aspect, the metal nanoparticles may be derived from gold, silver or platinum. In another aspect, the porous solid matrix is a sol-gel embedded with a polydispersion of metal for use in SERS detection. This metal nanoparticle substrate can be used on-site, is highly sensitive and easy to use for an immediate and accurate result.