sensing polymer/paracetamol interaction with an independent component analysis-based sers-mip nanosensor

In this article, we propose a new strategy to build a sensor for easy handling and rapid analysis on-site. our sensor is based on the combination of surface-enhanced raman spectroscopy (sers) and molecularly imprinted polymers (mips). sers provides a strong sensitivity for the detection of trace molecules while mips offer a highly selective and specific recognition platform. the research presented here focuses on the detection of the interaction between a robust ultra-thin layer of mips and of paracetamol, the targeted molecule. this drug is an environmental emerging pollutant, i.e., a molecule whose presence and significance have not yet been elucidated, which gives rise to health and environmental concerns. the results are a combined analysis of the sers spectra and a multivariate analysis. the former provides a clear demonstration of the evolution of the mip-nanostructure interaction when the concentration of paracetamol increases. the statistical analysis produces the proof of the selectivity of the sensor.