Direct laser writing of μ-chips based on hybrid C–Au–Ag nanoparticles for express analysis of hazardous and biological substances

Abstract

Micro-chips based on organic–inorganic hybrid nanoparticles (NPs) composed of nanoalloys of gold (Au) and silver (Ag) embedded in an amorphous carbonaceous matrix (C–Au–Ag NPs) were prepared directly on a substrate by the laser-induced deposition (for short: LID) method. The C–Au–Ag NPs show a unique plasmon resonance which enhances Raman scattering of analytes, making the μ-chips suitable to detect ultra-low-volumes (10⁻¹² liter) and concentrations (10⁻⁹ M) of bio-agents and a hazardous compound. These micro-chips constitute a novel, flexible solid-state device that can be used for applications in point-of-care diagnostics, consumer electronics, homeland security and environmental monitoring.