Electrospun magnetic CoFe2O4/Ag hybrid nanotubes for sensitive SERS detection and monitoring of the catalytic degradation of organic pollutants†
Abstract
We report on the facile synthesis of magnetic CoFe2O4/Ag hybrid nanotubes, as a reliable and sensitive surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrate for sensitive detection and in situ monitoring of the catalytic degradation process of organic pollutants. This SERS substrate, based on CoFe2O4/Ag hybrid nanotubes, is achieved through an electrospinning followed by calcination process. The CoFe2O4 and Ag nanoparticles are well dispersed in the CoFe2O4/Ag hybrid nanotubes. The unique heterostructure and strong interactions between CoFe2O4 and Ag nanoparticles in the hybrid nanotubes contribute the electromagnetic field SERS enhancement. In addition, target molecules can be easily enriched on the surface of the CoFe2O4/Ag hybrid nanotubes due to their magnetic properties, further providing good SERS properties. The CoFe2O4/Ag hybrid nanotubes can be also used as a catalyst for the degradation of organic pollutants. Therefore, we have developed a facile approach by using CoFe2O4/Ag hybrid nanotubes as both catalyst and SERS substrate to determine the reaction kinetics of the catalytic degradation of organic pollutants.