On-site trace detection of explosives: From ultra-sensitive SERS to integrated detection technology

In light of escalating global tensions and the persistent frequency of terrorist incidents, explosives have caused unpredictable serious environmental problems in the worldwide. The imperative for rapid, highly sensitive and accurate detection of explosives has been propelled to the forefront of priorities across various fields, especially national defense and environmental protection. Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) has emerged as a potent technology for the detection of explosives, attributed to its exceptional sensitivity, rapidity and non-destructive characterization of specific analytes. Concurrently, high-performance substrates and portable devices have expanded the use of SERS technology from the lab to field applications, increasing its potential utility. This progress report summarizes the progress of SERS and related integrated technologies for explosives detection in recent years. Following an introductory synopsis of SERS enhancement principles, this exposition focuses on the pivotal role of SERS substrates in the detection of explosives. It delineates the multifaceted advantages of SERS technology in the realm of explosive detection from three critical dimensions: ultra-sensitivity, semi-quantitative and high selectivity. The report subsequently introduces cutting-edge integration techniques that are compatible with SERS, such as portable Raman instruments, on-site wipeable sampling technology and microfluidic devices, all of which are major advances in promoting on-site high-throughput explosives detection programs. In conclusion, this report synthesizes the outcomes attained and delineates prospective directions for future research in the field of SERS explosives detection.