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Updated: Jan 26, 2026

Author Spotlight: Tracking Electrochemistry on Single Nanoparticles with Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering Spectroscopy and Microscopy
Published on: May 12, 2023
Single mode waveguide platform for spontaneous and surface-enhanced on-chip Raman spectroscopy
Ashim Dhakal1, Frédéric Peyskens1, Stéphane Clemmen1
1Department of Information Technology (INTEC), Photonics Research Group, University of Ghent-imec, Ghent, Belgium; Center for Nano- and Biophotonics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
This review covers an on-chip Raman spectroscopy method using evanescent waves and complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS)-compatible waveguides. It highlights integrated plasmonic nanoantennas for enhanced signal collection and on-chip sensor integration.
Area of Science:
- Spectroscopy
- Nanophotonics
- Integrated Optics
Background:
- Raman spectroscopy offers molecular fingerprinting capabilities.
- Existing methods face challenges in sensitivity and miniaturization.
- On-chip integration promises enhanced performance and reduced footprint.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review an on-chip approach for spontaneous and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy.
- To explore the use of evanescent excitation and collection with CMOS-compatible waveguides.
- To discuss the integration of plasmonic nanoantennas for signal enhancement.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing evanescent wave coupling for analyte excitation and Raman signal collection.
- Employing single-mode waveguides compatible with complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology.
- Integrating plasmonic nanoantennas on waveguides for signal amplification.
- Exploring flexible design of waveguide and antenna geometries for optimized collection efficiency.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated proof-of-concept for on-chip Raman spectroscopy.
- Showcased signal enhancement via plasmonic nanoantennas.
- Highlighted the potential for high collection efficiency through design optimization.
- Reviewed basic theoretical concepts and key design parameters.
Conclusions:
- On-chip Raman spectroscopy using evanescent excitation/collection is feasible.
- Plasmonic nanoantennas significantly enhance Raman signal collection efficiency.
- CMOS-compatible waveguide platforms enable integrated spectroscopic sensors.
- Design flexibility allows for tailored optimization of sensor performance.
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