Experimental and theoretical evaluation of crystal facet exposure on the charge transfer and SERS activity of ZnO films

M, respectively. Simultaneously, the electrodeposited ZnO films deliver good repeatability and SERS stability, with relative standard deviation (RSD) less than 6% and 85.2% of their original activity retained after 40 days. Theoretical calculations verified that the {0001} and {101̄1} facets can transfer more electrons from ZnO to the molecules on account of their low facet-related electronic work functions, thus generating the noticeable improvement of SERS activity. The current study provides theoretical and technical support for the crystal facet engineering and property improvement of semiconductors.