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Asian Journal of Physics  Vol. 31 No 2, 2022, 265-281

The use of thin layer chromatography combined with surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy for the identification of controlled substances
Kasey R Cargill, Marisia A Fikiet, and Brooke W Kammrath

Abstract

This research evaluates the method of thin layer chromatography coupled with surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TLC-SERS) for the purpose of separating and identifying seized drugs. This technique adheres to the current protocols for the identification of controlled substances that are used by forensic laboratories and detailed in ASTM E2329- 17 [1]. TLC is a well-established and commonly used method for the analysis of controlled substances, however it is a presumptive test that requires additional techniques to make a positive identification. SERS is a relatively new technique in forensic science, and is finding increasing acceptance because of notable published research on its capabilities for material identification. SERS corrects for the two main disadvantages of normal Raman spectroscopy: low sensitivity and fluorescence. Alone, each technique has its limitations, but together, they provide a sensitive and selective method for the separation and positive identification of seized drugs. Analyzing illicit drugs mixtures using TLC-SERS involves separating mixtures on a TLC plate then, through the addition of a metallic nanoparticle colloid, identifying the components directly from that TLC plate using Raman spectroscopy. Furthermore, TLC-SERS requires less time, materials, and sample when compared to other methods of drug analysis. In this research, two gold and three silver nanoparticle colloids were evaluated for the identification of ten drugs (amphetamine, caffeine, cocaine, codeine, diazepam, flunitrazepam, lidocaine, methamphetamine, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), and phenobarbital) by TLC-SERS. One silver colloid preparation was shown to be superior for the identification of controlled substances by TLC-SERS. Ultimately, this research demonstrates that TLC-SERS is a rapid, reliable, and repeatable way to separate and identify a wide range of controlled substances. © Anita Publications. All rights reserved.
Keywords: TLC-SERS; Controlled Substances; Forensic Science.

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