Silicon Nanostructures for Molecular Sensing: A Review

This review presents a comprehensive synopsis of the recent developments and achievements in the research of nanosensors composed of plasmonic nanoparticles (NPs) and silicon nanostructures (NSs) for effective trace-level molecular detection. This review focuses intensively on the methodologies for the preparation and enforcement of a variety of SiNSs including (a) metal nanoparticles decorated silicon nanowires (NWs), (b) metal nanodendrites (NDs) on Si substrate, (c) plasmonic NPs decorated nanocrystalline porous silicon (pSi), and (d) silicon composed hybrid nanostructures with favorable parameters of importance in sensing. Furthermore, their potency in wide molecular sensing applications, especially chemical, biological, and explosive molecules based on surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) phenomenon is discussed in detail. Various demonstrations and categorizations are provided on the topic of Si-based NSs for a clear understanding to diverse readers. A roadmap is also provided at the end for achieving superior sensing materials or devices in the future.

Automated summary

This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent developments in nanosensors composed of plasmonic nanoparticles and silicon nanostructures for trace-level molecular detection. It discusses methodologies for preparing various SiNSs and their potential applications in molecular sensing, especially based on SERS phenomenon. Additionally, demonstrations and categorizations are provided for a clear understanding, along with a roadmap for achieving superior sensing materials in the future.