Surface-enhanced Raman scattering sensor for quantitative detection of trace Pb2+ in water

A method for sensing trace lead ion (Pb2+) in water based on an ultrasensitive surface-enhanced Raman scattering sensor is developed. Silicon nanowire arrays were first grown, followed by the deposition of gold nanoparticles on the surface to form Au@SiNWAs substrate with an enhanced factor of similar to 5.96 x 10(5). Au@SiNWAs was modified with crystal violet, and the lowest detectable concentration of Pb2+ was about 10-13 M level. There was no obvious interference when other metal ions were present, demonstrating the excellent selectivity for Pb2+. The sensor is simple to prepare, and can be used repeatedly.

Automated summary

A ultrasensitive surface-enhanced Raman scattering sensor for detecting trace lead ion (Pb2+) in water is developed. Silicon nanowire arrays were grown and gold nanoparticles were deposited on the surface to enhance the sensor performance. With crystal violet modification, the sensor can detect Pb2+ at a concentration as low as 10^-13 M level, showing excellent selectivity without interference from other metal ions. The sensor is easy to prepare and can be used repeatedly.