title: Self-assembled nanoparticle arrays for multiphase trace analyte detection.
abstract: Nanoplasmonic structures designed for trace analyte detection using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy typically require sophisticated nanofabrication techniques. An alternative to fabricating such substrates is to rely on self-assembly of nanoparticles into close-packed arrays at liquid/liquid or liquid/air interfaces. The density of the arrays can be controlled by modifying the nanoparticle functionality, pH of the solution and salt concentration. Importantly, these arrays are robust, self-healing, reproducible and extremely easy to handle. Here, we report on the use of such platforms formed by Au nanoparticles for the detection of multi-analytes from the aqueous, organic or air phases. The interfacial area of the Au array in our system is ≈25 mm(2) and can be made smaller, making this platform ideal for small-volume samples, low concentrations and trace analytes. Importantly, the ease of assembly and rapid detection make this platform ideal for in-the-field sample testing of toxins, explosives, narcotics or other hazardous chemicals.
authors.affiliation: Department of Chemistry, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London SW7 2AZ, UK.
authors.forename: Michael P
authors.initials: MP
authors.lastname: Cecchini
authors.forename: Vladimir A
authors.initials: VA
authors.lastname: Turek
authors.forename: Jack
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Paget
authors.forename: Alexei A
authors.initials: AA
authors.lastname: Kornyshev
authors.forename: Joshua B
authors.initials: JB
authors.lastname: Edel