Application and Development of SERS Technology in VOCs Gas Detection

Abstract

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), recognized as critical environmental contaminants and cancer biomarkers, highlight the significance of their trace detection for environmental conservation and human health. Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) technology has emerged as a promising tool in this domain, offering unparalleled sensitivity and the ability to provide molecular fingerprints for probes. Despite the inherent disadvantages of gaseous molecules being difficult to adsorb on solid substrates, researchers have made great efforts to overcome these obstacles. This comprehensive review delineates the recent advancements and applications of SERS technology in the detection of VOCs, encompassing environmental monitoring and the analysis of exhaled breath. A particular focus is placed on the innovative design of substrate materials and strategies for enhancing the capture of gas molecules, including metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), layered double hydroxides (LDHs), microfluidics chips, and other substrates. Finally, we summarized the current challenges confronting SERS technology in VOCs detection and propose insights into potential prospects for future development.