Cellulose Nanofiber Films with Gold Nanoparticles Electrostatically Adsorbed for Facile Surface-Enhanced Raman...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) are promising for advanced applications.
• Developing efficient surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrates is crucial for sensitive detection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create novel, flexible SERS substrates using cellulose nanofibers.
• To investigate the substrate's performance for trace substance detection and microplastic identification.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of cationized CNF surfaces.
• Adsorption of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) onto CNF via electrostatic interactions.
• Preparation of flexible AuNPs@EPTMAC@CNF substrates using vacuum-assisted filtration.

Main Results:

• Achieved high sensitivity (10^-9 M) for methylene blue detection.
• Demonstrated superior signal reproducibility (RSD = 4.67%) and storage stability (>30 days).
• Confirmed good mechanical properties and capability for microplastic capture and visual identification.

Conclusions:

• The developed flexible AuNPs@EPTMAC@CNF SERS substrate is effective for prompt and sensitive trace substance detection.
• This substrate shows potential for environmental monitoring, including microplastic analysis.
• The facile synthesis method offers a promising route for advanced SERS applications.