Charge-transfer-driven ultrasensitive SERS sensing in a two-dimensional titanium carbonitride MXene

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Two-dimensional (2D) MXenes are recognized for their potential in surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) sensing.
• Their metallic nature, high surface area, and functionalization compatibility make them attractive for sensing applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and investigate a high-performance 2D titanium carbonitride (Ti3CN) MXene as a SERS substrate.
• To elucidate the SERS enhancement mechanisms in Ti3CN MXene.
• To demonstrate the application of Ti3CN MXene for trace-amount analysis, including prohibited drugs.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a 2D titanium carbonitride (Ti3CN) MXene SERS substrate.
• Investigation of electronic properties, specifically the density of states near the Fermi level.
• Implementation of 2D morphology regulation and molecular enrichment strategies to enhance SERS sensitivity.
• Detection of prohibited drugs using the developed Ti3CN MXene substrate.

Main Results:

• The abundant electronic density of states near the Fermi level in Ti3CN MXene significantly enhances photo-induced charge transfer.
• Optimized morphology and molecular enrichment strategies further improved the SERS sensitivity of the Ti3CN MXene substrate.
• Trace amounts of prohibited drugs were successfully detected, showcasing the substrate's analytical potential.

Conclusions:

• Ti3CN MXene serves as a highly efficient SERS substrate due to its electronic properties and structural advantages.
• This study provides fundamental insights into the SERS mechanisms of Ti3CN MXene.
• The findings broaden the application scope of transition metal carbonitride MXenes in sensitive analytical detection.