Optimal bimetallic Au@Ag nanocuboids-based SERS sensor for label-free ultrasensitive detection of florfenicol residue in eggs

A label-free surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) sensor using optimal bimetallic Au@Ag nanocuboids (Au@Ag NCs) was developed for ultrasensitive detection of florfenicol residue in eggs. The Raman characteristic peaks of florfenicol detection were identified at 1145 cm −1 and 1595 cm −1 which were consistent with the theoretical Raman spectrum of florfenicol calculated by density functional theory. The Au@Ag NCs were optimized by changing the aspect ratio of Au nanorods and the thickness of Ag nanocuboids, achieving an enhancement factor of 1.69 × 10 6 for SERS signals. Under optimal conditions, the label-free SERS sensor demonstrated a broad linear range of 0.01 mg/kg to 100 mg/kg for florfenicol in real sample. The limit of detection of florfenicol in eggs was as low as 0.0410 μg/kg, and the recovery was 94.83% ~ 108.24%. Therefore, this label-free SERS sensor offers a rapid and sensitive approach for the trace detection of florfenicol residues in food safety monitoring. Graphical abstract