I am new to SERS, and Raman spectroscopy in general.

I tried to set up the experiment by myself and there seems to be problems with the data I'm getting. I realised I have to calibrate it first, and there's alot of factors to consider, like background noise, attenuation of laser etc. (turns out I'm missing a notch filter, which I'm trying to get now)

The excitation laser I'm using is 633nm HeNe.

I attached a picture of my set up thus far. I have an Au substrate, so I am wondering what are some suitable samples for use with it, together with the 633 laser.

My aim is to be able to obtain legit raman spectra, and find out the SERS enhancement factor.

Thank you all in advance.