Testing, validation and optimization of Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) sensors for the detection of small molecules in cultural heritage materials

Abstract

The overall objective of the thesis is to develop a novel SERS-based sampling method to detect low molecular weight products/small molecules from the surface of cultural heritage objects. SERS platforms coated with aluminum are used in combination with silicone samplers and tunable solvents. The thesis is built upon three research lines with specific and progressive objectives. The first refers to the fabrication of the sampling devices. The second focuses on the detection of degradation markers from the surface of plastic-based contemporary artworks, aiming to develop minimally-invasive sampling tools for preventive conservation. The third expands the research towards a variety of small molecules and explores the limitations of the sampling method in applications in situ