Plasmonic nanosensors for environmental pollutants sensing: recent advances and perspectives

OpenAlex English

Ensuring human and environmental health is strictly linked to the accessibility of tools capable of achieving accurate, precise, and rapid pathogen detection, such as nanosensors. So, consistently improving and refining analytical techniques for monitoring environmental contaminants is crucial. As a result, there is a greater need than ever for the creation of selective sensors in order to circumvent laborious sample preparation procedures. Compared to conventional detection techniques, plasmonic-based sensors offer a wide linear range, high sensitivity, better selectivity, and a lower detection limit. This review covers the latest insights into nanosensors based on plasmonics for the monitoring of environmental pollutants. We have analyzed recent findings and usage of plasmonic nanosensors in detecting environmental pollutants such as pesticides, pharmaceuticals, hormones, mycotoxins, pathogens, and heavy metal ions. The discussion encompasses the design of surface properties and optical activities, aiming to ascertain the analytical performance of nanosensors.