An anti-scratch flexible SERS substrate for pesticide residue detection on the surface of fruits and vegetables

Abstract

We propose an anti-scratch flexible surface-enhanced Raman scattering substrate with arrayed nanocavity microstructures fabricated by colloidal lithography. The nanocavity microstructure of the substrate can well protect the inner gold nanoparticles during wipe sampling. The prepared flexible substrate was able to detect 4-aminothiophenol (4-ATP) with a concentration down to 1 fM. Furthermore, the substrate was used to detect 6-BA residues on the surface of apples and bean sprouts through wipe sampling, which shows great potential in the field of rapid on-site detection, especially in the detection of pesticide residues on the surface of fruits and vegetables.

Multifunctional Microcavity Surfaces for Robust Capture and Direct Rapid Sampling of Concentrated Analytes

“…[25][26][27] However, beyond the primary role of concentrating analytes, the multifaceted capabilities of a sensing substrate become increasingly crucial when considering its applicability in the real-world scenario. [28,29] In evaporation-induced particle aggregation or concentration, achieving spatial stabilization of the evaporating droplet is crucial for depositing target particles at precise locations for further analysis. [30,31] In this context, a micropatterned surface with both liquid repellency and strong adhesion is highly desirable to effectively anchor a drying droplet at the intended point of contact, while preventing undesired rolling, sliding, or movement on superhydrophobic or slippery surfaces.…”