Ag nanoparticles embedded in glass by two-step ion exchange and their SERS application

Silver nanoparticles embedded in glass are prepared by a two-step ion exchange process, where silver ions are introduced into glass in silver ion exchange, and reduced into metallic silver in subsequent potassium ion exchange. The formation of the particles can be explained by the combination effect of the galvanic replacement reaction and the electrolytic deposition. The formed particles are characterized by optical absorption measurements, transmission electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. Their application in SERS is demonstrated, and the optimal surface features in terms of SERS enhancement are also discussed. (C)2011 Optical Society of America