Monitoring Chip Based Electrophoretic Separations with Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Detlev Belder
• Subject Area: Analytical Chemistry
• Term: from 2016 to 2020
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 273006689

The potential of surface enhanced Raman Spectroscopy is investigated as a label free detection technique in chip electrophoresis. The aim of the project is the development and of methods and instrumental approaches to realize and study surface enhanced Raman detection in chip-based separation devices. For this purpose two different approaches to make use of the SERS effect in microfluidic chips will be investigated to monitor tiny amounts of electrophoretically separated analytes at high speed and sensitivity. While in one part of the studies the integration of stationary SERS-targets will be investigated the other approach is focused on the use of colloidal solutions of SERS active nanoparticles. The simultaneously acquired data on electrophoretic mobility and Raman spectra shall be utilized to unequivocally identify compounds in complex mixtures. A primary aim the research project is to cast light on the potential of SERS-Detection in microfluidic separation techniques in the context of alternative established methods like fluorescence detection or mass spectrometry.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants