pH-responsive and photostable group IV metal oxide functionalized porous silicon platforms and novel applications of spectroscopic imaging methods for functional and hybrid materials analysis

This dissertation covers two research topics that center on the spectroscopic characterization of functional materials. First, the performance (i.e. pH stability, photostability, shelf life) of novel photoluminescent group IV metal oxide functionalized porous silicon platforms is discussed. Spectroscopic techniques are used to provide insight into the chemistry of these substrates, and investigate pH-dependent PL response. The second section covers various novel applications of spectroscopic imaging methods. Colocalized Raman and atomic force microscopy and fluorescence imaging results for two- and three-component hybrid antifouling xerogel thin films are presented. Analysis investigates the relationship between surface structure, surface charge, surface pH and chemistry as it relates to antifouling performance. Lastly, practical aspects of tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy are discussed and preliminary results of WS2 on Au are presented.