https://phys.org/news/2018-06-fingerprints-molecules-noninvasively-black-silicon.html

"When detecting the smallest molecules using SERS spectroscopy their interaction with the nanostructured substrate—the platform allowing ultrasensitive identification—is crucial," the head of research team Alexander Kuchmizhak, Ph.D., reported. Alexander is a researcher of the Department of Theoretical and Nuclear Physics of the School of Natural Sciences of the FEFU. He also added: "Currently noble metals-based substrates are chemically active and as a result, they distort the characteristic molecules signals."

"Due to its special morphology black silicon significantly enhances the signal from the molecules wanted. This nanomaterial doesn't support catalytic conversion of the analyte as it could be in the case of the metal-based substrates applying. The black silicon- based substrate is unique: being absolutely chemically inert and non-invasive it could support a strong and non-distorted signal," says Alexander Kuchmizhak.