In this paper, the authors discuss surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) in a way that supports forensic evidence analysis and advocate for the standardization and integration of SERS into established forensic standards and practices; the authors explain the theory behind Raman spectroscopy and SERS, its costs and benefits, the most relevant applications of SERS relating to forensic analysis of hair, textiles, oil, paint, soil, drugs, bodily fluids, and stains, and finally summarize the most powerful methodology for SERS and its potential for future applications.
Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a modern analytical technique that can be used to determine the structure and composition of analyzed specimens at the molecular level. This technique is also minimally invasive and destructive. This and other advantages of SERS against traditional techniques used in forensics make it the ideal method for the identification of bodily fluids, soil constituents, drugs and chemicals, and colorants on or in hair, fabric, and paints. In this article, the authors first introduce the reader to the fundamental physical properties of SERS. Next, they discuss the most recent findings that are focused on SERS-based analyses of physical evidence related to forensics research. Finally, the authors provide a critical overview of where the future of SERS should be in forensics science. (Published Abstract Provided)