Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) in cotton fabrics analysis.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Textile Science

Background:

• Textile fiber analysis and characterization are crucial for quality control and material identification.
• Traditional spectroscopic methods can face challenges in identifying dyes, especially when fluorescence interferes with Raman signals.
• Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) offers potential for enhanced sensitivity in molecular detection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the application of dispersive Micro-Raman Spectroscopy, specifically SERS, for the analysis of cotton fibers.
• To evaluate the methodology for SERS studies on cotton fabrics modified with silver nanowires (AgNWs).
• To assess the capability of SERS in characterizing dyed cotton fabrics, including the identification of reactive dyes and their concentrations.

Main Methods:

• Cotton fabrics were dyed with three reactive dyes (blue, yellow, red) at four different color intensities (0.5%, 1%, 2%, 5%).
• Silver nanowire (AgNWs) colloid was applied to both undyed and dyed cotton fabrics using a dipping and drying method.
• Spectroscopic analyses were performed using Fourier-Transform Infrared Attenuated Total Reflectance (FTIR ATR), Raman Spectroscopy, UV-Vis Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy, and Fluorescence Spectroscopy.

Main Results:

• The study demonstrated the successful application of SERS for cotton fiber and dye analysis.
• Raman signal enhancement by silver nanoparticles significantly improved the identification of both the cotton fibers and the applied reactive dyes.
• SERS proved particularly effective in overcoming fluorescence interference commonly observed with certain dyes used in cotton dyeing.

Conclusions:

• SERS, utilizing AgNWs, provides a robust and sensitive method for the characterization of dyed cotton fabrics.
• This technique enhances the identification capabilities for textile fibers and dyes, offering a valuable tool for the textile industry.
• The SERS methodology shows promise for overcoming limitations of conventional spectroscopy in complex textile samples.