US Patent 7256886 Surface enhanced Raman spectroscopic nano-imaging probe and uses therefor

Provided herein is a reusable nano-imaging probe useful in surface enhanced Raman spectroscopic (SERS) applications demonstrating nanometer scale resolution. The nano-imaging probe generally comprises a fiber optic imaging bundle of fiber optic elements each having a tapered etched end and a non-tapered non-etched end. The tapered etched ends further comprise a SERS-active metal substrate deposited thereon effective to create a uniform SERS enhancement for an analyte or other substance of interest. Also provided is a SERS nanoimager for dynamic chemical imaging using the nano-imaging probe and methods of imaging and Raman spectral analysis and identification using the nano-imaging probe.