Quantitative Analysis of Trace Analytes with Highly Sensitive SERS Tags on Hydrophobic Interface

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) presents a promising avenue for trace matter detection by using plasmonic nanostructures. To tackle the challenges of quantitatively analyzing trace substances in SERS, such as poor enrichment efficiency and signal reproducibility, this study proposes a novel approach using Au@internal standard@Au nanospheres (Au@IS@Au NSs) for realizing the high sensitivity and stability in SERS substrates. To verify the feasibility and stability of the SERS performances, the SERS substrates have exhibited exceptional sensitivity for detecting methyl blue molecules in aqueous solutions within the concentration range from 10–4 M to 10–13 M. Additionally, this strategy also provides a feasible way of quantitative detection of antibiotic in the range of 10–4 M to 10–10 M. Trace antibiotic residue on the surface of shrimp in aquaculture waters was successfully conducted, achieving a remarkably low detection limit of 10–9 M. The innovative approach has great potential for the rapid and quantitative detection of trace substances, which marks a noteworthy step forward in environmental detection and analytical methods by SERS.