Advanced microplastic monitoring using Raman spectroscopy with a combination of nanostructure-based substrates

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Micro(nano)plastics (MNPs) pose risks to human health and ecosystems due to their presence and associated chemical contaminants.
• Current research focuses on MNP toxicity in water, air, and soil, with ongoing development in detection methodologies.
• On-site detection of MNPs remains a challenge, necessitating advancements in analytical techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive update on facile micro(nano)plastic detection using Raman spectroscopy.
• To highlight the role of Raman imaging and nanostructure-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) in identifying MNPs.
• To review recent advances in plasmonic nanostructured materials for sensitive MNP detection in environmental samples.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing Raman spectroscopy, particularly Raman imaging and SERS, for MNP identification.
• Developing and employing plasmonic nanostructured materials (noble metals, hybrid nanomaterials) as SERS substrates.
• Exploring novel materials and platforms such as 3D SERS substrates, nanopipettes, and microfluidic chips.

Main Results:

• Plasmonic nanostructure-enhanced SERS substrates significantly amplify spectral signals of MNPs.
• Noble metal and hybrid nanomaterials facilitate the detection of low-concentration MNPs.
• Novel material-assisted spectral Raman techniques enable selective and trace detection of MNPs.

Conclusions:

• Raman spectroscopy, especially SERS, is a powerful tool for sensitive and specific MNP detection.
• Advancements in plasmonic materials and integrated platforms are crucial for environmental MNP monitoring.
• Facile and on-site MNP detection is essential for early diagnosis of environmental and health risks.