Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 5, 2026
08:13
A Filter-based Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopic Assay for Rapid Detection of Chemical Contaminants
Published on: February 19, 2016
Students Exploring Raman Spectroscopy: Developing Outreach Efforts and Training Young Scientists via Absorption and
Julia L Danischewski1, Jared Viggers1, Abdulsobur Fagbenro2
1Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, USA.
Applied Spectroscopy
|June 4, 2026
Summary
Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) offers a unique educational opportunity. This program successfully introduced high school students to SERS, nanoparticle synthesis, and analytical science, fostering skills and confidence.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Materials Science
- Spectroscopy
Background:
- Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is crucial in spectrochemical analysis.
- STEM education emphasizes engaging students in analytical sciences.
- Educational outreach programs benefit students and mentors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and implement a 10-week educational program on spectroscopy and SERS for high school students.
- To explore the use of SERS as an engaging teaching tool.
- To assess the impact of the program on student learning and mentor development.
Main Methods:
- A 10-week curriculum combining readings, lectures, simulations, and hands-on experiments.
- Introduction to spectroscopy, nanoparticle synthesis, and SERS.
- Participation in the ACS Project SEED program.
Main Results:
- High school students improved benchtop skills and confidence.
- Students gained an increased appreciation for chemistry and materials science.
- Graduate student mentors developed curriculum design and teaching experience.
Conclusions:
- SERS is an effective and versatile tool for science education.
- Hands-on SERS experiments enhance student engagement and learning.
- The program provided valuable teaching experience for graduate mentors.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Raman Spectroscopy: Overview
The underlying principle of Raman spectroscopy is based on the interaction between light and matter, specifically molecules' inelastic scattering of photons. When a monochromatic beam of light, typically from a laser source, interacts with a sample, most scattered light has the same frequency as the incident light. This is known as Rayleigh scattering.
However, a small fraction of the scattered light exhibits a frequency shift due to the exchange of energy between the incident photons and the...
However, a small fraction of the scattered light exhibits a frequency shift due to the exchange of energy between the incident photons and the...
01:26Raman Spectroscopy Instrumentation: Overview
A conventional Raman spectrophotometer includes a laser source, a sample holding system, a wavelength selector, and a detector.
The monochromatic laser source, typically using visible or near-infrared radiation, generates a highly focused beam of light. This light interacts with the molecules of the sample, scattering some of the light. Liquid and gaseous samples are usually tested in ordinary glass capillaries, while solids can be analyzed as powders packed in capillaries or as potassium...
The monochromatic laser source, typically using visible or near-infrared radiation, generates a highly focused beam of light. This light interacts with the molecules of the sample, scattering some of the light. Liquid and gaseous samples are usually tested in ordinary glass capillaries, while solids can be analyzed as powders packed in capillaries or as potassium...