A new SERS substrate: Ag-nanoparticles immobilized on glass for rapid scale inhibitor determination − Theoretical and experimental approach

Abstract

This study introduces an innovative approach for the rapid detection of scale inhibitors, with a focus on aminotris-(methylene phosphonic acid) (ATMP), a compound critical to petroleum industry operations. The traditionally employed technique of inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP OES) requires expensive equipment and skilled personnel and is labor-intensive and time-consuming. In contrast, we propose using silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) immobilized on a glass substrate to enhance Raman spectroscopy through the Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) effect. Characterization of the AgNPs via Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) revealed an average hydrodynamic diameter of 43 nm. Additionally, a computational analysis of the interactions between the AgNPs and the scale inhibitor was performed, contributing to a deeper understanding of the binding mechanisms and interactions at the molecular level. The methodology enabled the detection of ATMP at concentrations around 10⁻⁴ M, demonstrating its effectiveness in identifying scale inhibitors under field-applicable conditions. A significant increase in SERS intensity was observed, with an amplification of approximately sevenfold when employing four layers of AgNPs compared to a single layer. The results indicate that the proposed approach is efficient, reliable, and cost-effective, positioning itself as a promising alternative to conventional techniques. It has potential implications for continuously monitoring inhibitors in drilling and production operations within the petroleum industry.