Department of Chemical EngineeringThe surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) effect is a promising technique to acquire molecular information. However, in order to achieve high enhancement factor as well as homogeneous Raman signal, the methods developed so far have limitation in that it requires complex, costly, and time-consuming processes. In this study, we integrated SERS and microfluidic device by in-situ growth of silver nanoparticles in hydrogel micro-posts array via automated digital micromirror device (DMD)-based maskless flow lithography technique. The hydrogel-based SERS system in microfluidic channel allowed target molecules amplification effect and real-time detection. In addition, the 3D porous hydrogel network not only enabled compact density of Ag NPs within overall hydrogel structure but also easily removed the target molecules after Raman measurement, providing high sensitivity and reusability capability. In addition, the SERS substrate was proven to be highly reproducible by measuring Raman signal from randomly selected spots and the Raman mapping images of a single hydrogel micro-post. Lastly, real-time detection of date drug was carried out in the presence of alcohol for practical application.clos
