Surface-enhanced Raman scattering using bismuth nanoparticles: a study with amino acids

Bismuth nanoparticles produced by laser ablation synthesis in solution (LASiS) show localized surface plasmon resonances (LSPRs). The nanoparticles show surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) activity for several tested amino acids. Optical absorption, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) as well as Raman scattering were used to characterize the samples. The search for new biocompatible nanoparticles for diagnostic purposes is important, and the demonstration that a semi-metal is capable to act as a SERS active system opens new possibilities for molecular detection.