Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is very useful for a spectroscopic technique that can enhance Raman scattering intensity up to 10¹⁴ times higher than conventional Raman signal due to the electric field enhancement effect. In this study, we fabricated and evaluated gold nanostructures with SERS activity by using incline magnetron sputtering process. Our fabricated SERS-active substrates enable highly sensitive measurement with wide area over about 20×20 mm². The formation of a gradient in the thickness of the gold film was confirmed, and the SEM images showed that the gold nanoparticles deposited on boehmite template were in an elliptical structure. To evaluate the characteristics of the substrate, the SERS measurements of 4,4´-bipyridine (4bpy) were performed by using the polarized irradiation laser. The polarization property evaluation results show that the polarization reflects the uniaxial anisotropy of the nanostructures.

Periodical tartar removal in canine is generally performed under general anesthesia to restrain its movement. A tracheal intubation tube is usually attached to the canine to allow immediate support in the case of emergency. To support such a procedure, here we propose a micro-machined flow sensor to be embedded in animal's tracheal intubation tube for respiration monitoring. A tube thermal flow sensor based on a two-layer tube structure with a built-in film sensor was embedded inside the intubation tube where steady flow was confirmed through fluid dynamics simulation. The respiration and heartbeat monitoring using the developed device was successfully demonstrated in an animal experiment using a rat.

This research developed a complex capacitance sensor using a quartz oscillator for non-invasively imaging of a rebars position in reinforced concrete structures. The use of different electrode structures and a floating electrode located the backside allowed for control of the sensing depth. This technology is expected to realize a simpler maintenance and management process for infrastructure quality.