Electrospun magnetic CoFe2O4/Ag hybrid nanotubes for sensitive SERS detection and monitoring of the catalytic degradation of organic pollutants

Abstract

We report on the facile synthesis of magnetic CoFe₂O₄/Ag hybrid nanotubes, as a reliable and sensitive surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrate for sensitive detection and in situ monitoring of the catalytic degradation process of organic pollutants. This SERS substrate, based on CoFe₂O₄/Ag hybrid nanotubes, is achieved through an electrospinning followed by calcination process. The CoFe₂O₄ and Ag nanoparticles are well dispersed in the CoFe₂O₄/Ag hybrid nanotubes. The unique heterostructure and strong interactions between CoFe₂O₄ and Ag nanoparticles in the hybrid nanotubes contribute the electromagnetic field SERS enhancement. In addition, target molecules can be easily enriched on the surface of the CoFe₂O₄/Ag hybrid nanotubes due to their magnetic properties, further providing good SERS properties. The CoFe₂O₄/Ag hybrid nanotubes can be also used as a catalyst for the degradation of organic pollutants. Therefore, we have developed a facile approach by using CoFe₂O₄/Ag hybrid nanotubes as both catalyst and SERS substrate to determine the reaction kinetics of the catalytic degradation of organic pollutants.