Evaluation of a chemical vapor dosimeter using polymer-coated SERS substrates

This paper describes the development and evaluation of an improved passive chemical dosimeter using poly (vinylpyrrolidone) coating on a surface-enhan ced Raman scattering (SERS) substrate for monitoring airborne chemicals. Ex perimental studies are performed to demonstrate the longevity, enhancement of Raman signals, and selectivity of the dosimeter. The new substrate has b een used to monitor exposure to vapors of benzoic acid, 2-aminopyrimidine, and 2,4-dinitrophenol over 20-day periods. The improved performance of the newly developed polymer-coated substrate is compared to that of uncoated SE RS substrates. Results of substrate optimization and shelf-life studies are discussed. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.