The concept of a near-field Raman probe

This article considers the possibility to use tips, which are functionalised by Raman active molecules, as new Raman probes for near-field optics in such a way that the Raman spectrum can be recorded of such a tip. If the Raman spectrum of the probe molecules is sensitive to their immediate environment, the probe can be used to map a surface by its local influence on the Raman spectrum of the probe. This new concept may be very promising for the investigation of specific interactions at the nanoscale by an optical response. Examples of the sensitivity of such a probe to the local environment are presented as a basis for further development of such a probe.