Selective Labeling of Small Microplastics with SERS-Tags Based on Gold Nanostars: Method Optimization Using...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Materials Science
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Microplastic pollution is a pervasive global environmental concern.
• Current detection methods, like micro-Raman spectroscopy, are time-consuming due to single-particle analysis.
• Accurate quantification of microplastics is crucial for environmental monitoring.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a faster and more efficient method for microplastic detection.
• To functionalize gold nanostars (AuNS) as Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS)-tags for selective microplastic coupling.
• To validate the SERS-based approach on environmental samples.

Main Methods:

• Functionalization of gold nanostars (AuNS) to act as SERS-tags.
• Selective coupling of SERS-tags to microplastics on filters.
• Rapid scanning of filter areas using SERS for microplastic identification.
• Validation using fabricated and real marine samples.

Main Results:

• Achieved selective coupling of AuNS SERS-tags to microplastics.
• Demonstrated a significant reduction in analysis time (approximately 2 orders of magnitude) compared to traditional methods.
• Successfully applied the SERS-based approach to filters used in routine environmental monitoring.

Conclusions:

• The developed SERS-based protocol offers a rapid and efficient alternative for microplastic detection.
• This method can be integrated into existing environmental monitoring workflows.
• The study paves the way for enhanced micro- and nanoplastics analysis in various environments.