Synthesis and application of homogeneous Fe3O4 core/Au shell nanoparticles with strong SERS effect

Abstract

Magnetic Fe₃O₄@Au nanoparticles (NPs) were fabricated using a specific strategy for use as a surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrate. The Raman enhancement of Fe₃O₄@Au NPs could be verified by the detection of rhodamine and crystal violet. The resonator plasma of gold nanoparticles could significantly improve the SERS activity of Fe₃O₄ magnetic nanoparticles. The results showed that the fabricated Fe₃O₄@Au NPs have superior SERS sensitivity for rhodamine and crystal violet with a detection limit of 10⁻⁷ M. Moreover, the magnetic properties of Fe₃O₄ are conducive for easily separating Fe₃O₄@Au NPs from solution. Due to the convenience of operating and high efficiency technique for separating the product, the Fe₃O₄@Au NPs could be further developed for other applications.