Sensitive detection of trace 4-methylimidazole utilizing a derivatization reaction-based ratiometric surface-enhanced Raman scattering platform

Abstract Herein, a facile and fast surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) method with ratiometric strategy was developed for detection of 4-methylimidazole (4-MI). Via a chemical derivatization reaction with 3-amino-5-mercapto-1,2,4-triazole (AMTA) diazonium salts, 4-MI could be converted to SERS-sensitive species. The SERS intensity ratio between the peaks at 1243 cm−1 and 1110 cm−1 (I1243/I1110) was used for the quantification of 4-MI. In addition, the method sensitivity was further improved by the aggregation of beta-cyclodextrin-modified Ag nanoparticles (beta-CD-AgNPs). Under the optimal conditions, the limit of detection (LOD) and the limit of quantification (LOQ) for 4-MI were 1.7 nM (S/N = 3) and 5.7 nM (S/N = 10), respectively. The relative standard deviation (RSD) for 0.5 μM 4-MI was 8.2% (n = 20). This method was successfully used for the determination of 4-MI in cola samples with recoveries ranging from 92% to 106%. The present method is convenient, sensitive, selective, reliable and may have a promising application in determination of the compounds with an imidazole ring containing active hydrogen atoms.