Multiple SERS Detection of Phenol Derivatives in Tap Water

Phenol and some of its derivatives are products of the petrochemical industry. These compounds are characterized by their exceptional ability to persist in media and reach both food and water used by human beings. The consumption of these compounds has harmful effects on health, producing both acute and chronic effects—among the most prominent damages are teratogenicity, mutagenicity and carcinogenicity. Compounds such as phenol, ortho-cresol, and 1-napthol are listed by agencies such as the EPA. The aim of this work was the development of a rapid method for the simultaneous detection of these compounds in water samples. The method was based on the colorimetric reaction between phenol derivatives and Gibbs reagent, which forms indophenolates; using increased surface Raman spectroscopy together with statistical methods, SERS spectra were acquired, which were then analyzed. The developed method allows one to at least equalize the detection limits of the colorimetric method through UV–VIS spectroscopy and to discriminate among the three mixed phenols in at least binary aqueous samples. The major advantage of the method is the possibility of discriminating between phenol spectra quickly and easily.