In situ detection of natural dyes in archaeological textiles by SERS substrates immobilized on the fiber

Accurate detection of natural dyes in archaeological textiles is challenging due to limited sample availability. In situ detection of fibers by surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) can overcome this challenge. In this study, we present two methods for the preparation of SERS substrates based on the laser photoreduction reaction and the galvanic displacement reaction, respectively. Our results show that the substrates prepared by these methods, including 450 nm-AgNPs, Cu-based Ag, and Zn-based Ag, offer several advantages such as rapid preparation, easy handling, low cost, high sensitivity and excellent reproducibility. Using these substrates, we successfully detected anthraquinones (alizarin, purpurin), indigoids (indigotin, indirubin), and protoberberine-type dyes in archaeological textiles from the Wei and Jin Dynasties. Notably, we were able to detect both indigo and protoberberine-type dyes in one archaeological fiber. The minimally invasive, in situ analytical approach developed provides a valuable tool for analytical applications where sampling is limited to microscopic amounts.

Automated summary

Accurate detection of natural dyes in archaeological textiles is achieved using in situ detection of fibers by surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). Two methods for the preparation of SERS substrates are presented, offering advantages such as rapid preparation, easy handling, low cost, high sensitivity, and excellent reproducibility. This minimally invasive, in situ analytical approach provides a valuable tool for analytical applications where sampling is limited.