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Chromatographic separation and detection of target analytes from complex samples using inkjet printed SERS substrates
1Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA.
The Analyst
|May 15, 2013
Summary
Inkjet-printed paper substrates enhance surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) for complex samples. This cost-effective method integrates sample cleanup and separation for sensitive analyte detection.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Spectroscopy
- Materials Science
Background:
- Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) offers unique analyte identification but struggles with real-world sample interference.
- Traditional SERS substrates and microfluidic devices lack integrated sample cleanup and separation capabilities.
- Inkjet-printed SERS substrates on paper offer a cost-effective and simple platform for chemical detection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop inkjet-printed paper SERS substrates that integrate sample cleanup and analyte separation.
- To demonstrate the capability of these substrates for analyzing complex real-world samples.
- To leverage paper's unique properties for enhanced SERS detection.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing inkjet-printed paper and polymer membranes as SERS substrates.
- Implementing capillary-actuated fluid transport and selective molecular retention inherent to paper.
- Performing two-dimensional chromatographic separation coupled with SERS detection.
- Analyzing complex matrices like infant formula and contaminated samples.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated sensitive detection of melamine down to 5 ppm in infant formula.
- Quantified nanograms of heroin in highly fluorescent background samples.
- Showcased two-dimensional chromatographic separation on paper SERS substrates.
- Achieved high sensitivity and cost-effectiveness with integrated sample cleanup.
Conclusions:
- Inkjet-printed paper SERS devices provide significant advantages in sensitivity, cost, and simplicity.
- The inherent properties of paper enable integrated sample cleanup and separation, overcoming limitations of traditional SERS.
- These paper-based SERS devices are effective for identifying analytes in complex, real-world samples.
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