Surface-enhanced Raman scattering paper-based analytical devices

The Raman effect has revolutionized the analytical methods scenario and was designated, in 1998, an International Historic Chemical Landmark, by the American Chemical Society. Due to its unique selectivity and nondestructive and noninvasive nature, it has been reportedly associated with multiple applications and fundamental studies through Raman spectroscopy. However, due to the low probability of a Raman scattering event, the signals related to Raman spectroscopy are extremely weak. Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) supports the amplification of Raman signals conferring a high sensitivity for analyte’s detection, enabling single-molecule detection. The application of Raman enhancement layers to planar substrates such as paper gives to SERS platforms relevant characteristics, as far as low-cost, versatility, tunability, use of low sample volumes and recyclability are concerned. In this chapter, a brief explanation of Raman and SERS' fundamentals is given covering the literature revision of paper-based SERS devices with a focus on the enhancement nanostructures and applications.