Shell-isolated nanoparticle-enhanced Raman spectroscopy

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a highly sensitive spectroscopic technique that provides non-destructive detection at the single-molecule level. Shell-isolated nanoparticle-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SHINERS) provided a solution to the long-standing limitation of poor universality of traditional SERS substrates and morphology and, as a result, greatly expanded applications of SERS. In this Primer, we introduce the background, origin and enhancement mechanism of SHINERS before describing the experimental details of SHINERS, including the types and characterization of shell-isolated nanoparticles, relevant experimental instruments, and experimental reproducibility and data analysis. The recent advances in electrochemical catalysis, heterogeneous catalysis, batteries, and industry and living applications are highlighted. By analysing the limitations and possible optimizations of SHINERS, the guidance for further improvements is discussed. Finally, an outlook on the application of SHINERS-based research is presented. Shell-isolated nanoparticle-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SHINERS) is a variation of surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) that uses shell-isolated nanoparticles (SHINs) to prevent direct contact between the core of the nanoparticle and the tested substances. In this Primer, Zhang et al. describe the design considerations for shell-isolated nanoparticles, relevant experimental instrument set-ups and ways to ensure experimental reproducibility and data analysis.

Automated summary

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a highly sensitive technique for non-destructive detection at the single-molecule level. Shell-isolated nanoparticle-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SHINERS) overcomes the limitations of traditional SERS substrates and morphology, expanding the applications of SERS. This Primer provides an introduction to the origin and enhancement mechanism of SHINERS, and describes the experimental details, including the types and characterization of shell-isolated nanoparticles, experimental instruments, reproducibility, and data analysis. It also highlights recent advances and discusses the limitations and potential optimizations of SHINERS.