Self-positioning surface-enhanced Raman scattering substrates with gradient wettability

• Published in: Surfaces and interfaces 2025-01, Vol.56, Article 105585
• Main Authors: Li, Huijuan, Li, Xiaohong, Liu, Jiasong, Xuan, Sensen, Li, Guoqiang, Zhang, Weixuan, Liao, Jihan
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Self-positioning; Surface-enhanced Raman scattering; Wettability gradient
• ISSN: 2468-0230
• DOI: 10.1016/j.surfin.2024.105585

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) technology has garnered significant attention as an important analytical tool due to its non-invasive, rapid detection, and non-destructive characteristics. However, traditional SERS techniques have certain limitations in droplet positioning and enrichment. Herein, a novel gradient wettability self-positioning SERS (GWSP-SERS) platform was prepared by femtosecond laser direct writing technology and magnetron sputtering method. The laser-induced periodical surface structures and Ag nano-particles on the GWSP-SERS substrate contribute to both a desirable signal enhancement and a unique self-positioning performance with non-destructive transport property. Observations indicate that test solutions with various concentrations can be transported rapidly and accurately to the central detection area of the GWSP-SERS substrate. Furthermore, high detection sensitivity, such as 10–11 M for Rhodamine 6G molecules, was also confirmed by experimental results. This work, characterizing both the enhancement of SERS detection and unique self-positioning capability, is believed to offer an ideal candidate for effective detection and analysis applications in fields like medicine and biology. [Display omitted]