DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/JAP6-XA47
Defense Date
2023
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy
Department
Nanoscience and Nanotechnology
First Advisor
Massimo Bertino
Second Advisor
Loren Picco
Abstract
Modern scientific instruments are significant capital investments for universities. These investments can be outside of the funding capabilities of some smaller universities or departments and can be a significant barrier in the pursuit of scientific breakthroughs. This project aims to provide a template for universities or research groups to upgrade, at a reasonable price, an existing Raman spectroscopy system to a Tip-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (TERS) system. This system can serve as a permanent upgrade to an existing system or as a bridge necessary to prove the viability of a research path before significant capital investment in a commercial TERS system. This project explains, in detail, all required components of a TERS system and the rationale of each designed component. The enhancement factor demonstrated using this homebuilt TERS system shows the potential of this system as an alternative to much more expensive commercial systems.
Rights
© The Author
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
5-4-2023