Sustainable silver/polylactic acid coated papers as efficient surface-enhanced Raman scattering substrates for detecting contaminants of emerging concern
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Developing cost-effective and sensitive Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) paper platforms represents a significant step forward for detecting specific water contaminants at ultra-low concentrations in remote regions of the globe. However, the hydrophilic, irregular, and porous nature of common paper often results in poor reproducibility and lack of uniformity of paper sensors. In this study, we developed efficient SERS substrates by combining office paper, polylactic acid nanoparticles (PLA NPs), and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using a two-step drop-casting method. In these substrates, the PLA NPs create a nano-rough film that reduces the porosity and hydrophilicity of paper, while the AgNPs provide SERS activity. The film's packaging ability was optimized by adjusting the drying temperature of the PLA colloid, which significantly influenced the paper's wettability. Additionally, the drying temperature was found to substantially affect the loading AgNPs on the substrate surface. Initial tests with rhodamine 6G as a model analyte showed that the optimal SERS response was achieved at a drying temperature of 100ºC, with a sixfold concentration of the Ag colloid.The effectiveness of these paper-based sensors was further demonstrated by detecting pesticides and antibiotics in mineral water, specifically paraquat and ciprofloxacin, with detection limits of 1 µM and 2000 µM, respectively.
Source: Applied Surface Science
Authors: Natércia C.T. Martins, Catarina S.S.P. Silva, Ricardo J.B. Pinto, Tito Trindade
Institution: University of Aveiro
Language: English
Field: Materials Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,930
OpenAlex ID: W4407091610