The ToPortNano project aim to develop 3D multilayered hybrid architectures on silicon substrates, enabling ‘on site’ detection of nanoscale plastic particles. The resulted micro/nanotechnologies will allow the progress towards a handheld portable tool regularly used for food safety, health and environmental assesment.

In this playground the project will contribute with: (i) implementation of cutting-edge numerical methods, such as the inverse design algorithm to obtain the optimized 3D architectures for Raman and IR providing the highest signal enhancement (there are only few reports concerning the use of genetic algorithms for optimization of SERS substrates, whereas no studies regarding SEIRS substrates); (ii) novel hybrid concept and eco-friendly fabrication solutions through nano-systems engineering for the optical sensing platform, to foster a synergetic effect of SERS/SEIRS enhancement.

Besides putting together different types of low dimensional materials, to form nano-assemblies unexplored up to now, considering the huge role played in the ‘hot spot’ formation, a systematic study will be realized to carefully adjust their geometries, as well as the interfaces.