Ultrasensitive detection of emerging water contaminants using surface enhanced Raman scattering technique: Recent advancement, challenges, and future prospects

The contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) including harmful/toxic chemicals present in water bodies even at lower concentrations may affect eco-system and human health. Therefore, it is important to detect the presence of such water contaminants to improve the health of the environment and but very challenging. In this context, a rapid and ultra-sensitive technique must be implemented. This review highlights the importance of surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) technique in ultrasensitive detection of CECs including other emerging water threats i.e. antibiotic resistance genes, microplastics, SARS-CoV-2/other viruses etc. Additionally, recent development in developing promising 3D flexible, floating SERS substrates along with emerging applications of hand-held/portable/in-situ SERS in water applications have been discussed in view of environmental and health monitoring. Eventually, various challenges and future prospects are discussed.