Surface-enhanced Raman scattering of dopamine at polymer-coated silver electrodes

Attenuation of dopamine surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectra at silver electrodes by protein adsorption is described. Polymer-modified electrodes eliminate protein adsorption effects. Partially hydrolyzed cellulose acetate coatings prevent protein adsorption and allow transport of dopamine to and from the electrode surface. Dopamine SERS spectra from these electrodes are similar to those obtained at uncoated electrodes. Perfluorosulfonate (Nafion) coatings also prevent protein adsorption. However, dopamine transported to the electrode remains trapped inside the coating and cannot be removed.