One-step facile synthesis of PbS quantum dots/Pb (DMDC)2 hybrids and their application as a low-cost SERS substrate

A microwave- and ultrasound-assisted reduction and assembly of lead dimethyldithiocarbamate (Pb (DMDC) 2 ) led to the formation of rod-like Pb (DMDC) 2 embedded with PbS quantum dots (QDs). Transmission electron microscopy measurements show the presence of numerous isolated PbS QDs on the Pb (DMDC) 2 microrod surface, which may potentially act as hot spots for enhanced Raman spectroscopy. A case study using mercaptopyridine as the analyte demonstrates that the rod-like hybrids have outstanding performance as a surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrate, comparable with that of Au nanorods. The excellent SERS performance of the as-fabricated PbS QDs/Pb (DMDC) 2 hybrids may be attributed to the unique dispersion of PbS QDs as well as the intimate contacts between PbS QDs and Pb (DMDC) 2 . This study therefore presents a new approach for the development of low-cost and highly efficient semiconductor-based SERS substrates.