Functionalisation of silver nanoparticles with 4-mercaptophenylacetic acid for iron ions detection using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy

The detailed synthesis of silver nanoparticles (30 ± 5 nm) functionalised with 4-mercaptophenylacetic acid and their interaction with iron ions are presented. The study shows the morphological changes of the nanostructures due to the interaction with iron ions, leading to aggregation. The formation of bulky complexes is proved by UV–Vis, HR-TEM and SEM data. The complexes increase the SERS sensitivity of 4-mercaptophenylacetic acid, expanding wider analytical applications.