Plasmonic paper substrates for point-of-need applications: Recent developments and fabrication methods.

[Display omitted] The translation of Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) from the laboratory to real-world applications such as point-of-need detection requires the fabrication of inexpensive yet quality substrates. Due to its flexibility, biodegradability, and 3D cellulosic structure, paper can be an excellent platform for the fabrication of low-cost, flexible SERS substrates that could expand the application of SERS to point-of-need sensing applications. In this mini-review, recent advances in paper-based SERS substrates along with various fabrication methods for plasmonic paper are discussed. The pros and cons of different fabrication methods are evaluated from the viewpoint of mass production. The different approaches to improving the performances of plasmonic paper substrates and additional analytical functionalities obtained from plasmonic paper substrates are discussed. Finally, opportunities and challenges in the realization of a low-cost commercial plasmonic paper substrate are also suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]