In a series of studies, the scientists were able to identify compounds such as lactic acid and the protein albumin in highly diluted samples and in mixtures such as dyes and other chemicals, in less than an hour.
According to the scientists, the study results indicate that the same system could be used to detect pathogens and contaminants in food as well as blood, saliva and urine.
To develop the diagnostic test, the scientists combined two techniques - surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) and traditional thin layer chromatography (TLC).
Senior author Yiping Zhao said that that while the research team focused on health and food safety applications, SERS and ultra-thin layer chromatography can be used to identify compounds of all types -- from forensic materials at a crime scene to environmental pollutants.
The research was supported by the US Department of Agriculture, the National Science Foundation and the UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.
