The fabrication of polymer-nanocone-based 3D Au nanoparticle array and its SERS performance

By combining conical-pore-AAO template and NIL technology, we realized the transfer of three-dimensional nanoparticle array to polymer materials. Au nanoparticles were deposited on the surface of conical-pore-AAO template, then the nanostructure was duplicated onto the polymer wafer via NIL method and the nanoparticles were inlaid onto the nanocones. Polymer-nanocone-based 3D Au nanoparticle array was obtained. The product possesses excellent flexibility and transparency in visual and infrared range. As a new class of SERS substrate, the product exhibits excellent sensitivity and reproducibility. Compared with the traditional SERS substrates, it provides unique advantages, such as being flexible, transparent, lightweight, portable, easily handled and low cost.