SERS Patch for Continuous Drug Detection via Nanostructure Signal Enhancement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting prohibited drugs or narcotics, such as urine testing, face challenges in accuracy and convenience, especially when urine samples cannot be obtained promptly or during continuous monitoring in sports settings, and there is a need for a more reliable and continuous testing solution.
Innovation Solution
A surface-enhanced Raman scattering patch with a protein film, a metal-containing nanostructure layer, and a protective layer is developed, allowing for continuous monitoring of drug use by penetrating detection-target molecules and enhancing Raman signals for accurate detection, which can be attached to various surfaces or bodies for convenient use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If urine testing is used for drug detection, then detection can be performed, but accuracy deteriorates when urine samples cannot be obtained promptly or after time has passed since drug administration
Solution Approach 1:
The patch is applied in advance to the skin surface and continuously monitors for drug presence, so that detection capability is ready before drug administration occurs. This eliminates the need for post-administration urine collection and maintains continuous detection accuracy regardless of time elapsed since drug use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical urine collection and laboratory testing system with a wearable patch that uses surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) technology to directly detect drug molecules on the skin surface, enabling continuous monitoring without time-sensitive sample collection.
2Measurement precision
If chromatography immunodetection strip is used, then drug detection can be performed, but continuous monitoring capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patch is designed to continuously monitor for drug presence on the skin surface over extended periods, maintaining detection capability throughout the monitoring duration. The wearable nature allows uninterrupted observation, unlike the single-use immunodetection strip that provides only momentary detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patch autonomously detects and monitors drug presence without requiring external laboratory processing or manual sample collection. The SERS-active nanoparticles on the patch continuously interact with drug molecules, providing self-powered detection throughout the monitoring period.
3Measurement precision
If traditional drug testing methods are used, then detection can be performed, but convenience and ease of use deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patch utilizes a flexible skin-adhering film that conformally contacts the body surface, enabling easy application and continuous wear. This flexible membrane structure allows the detection function to be integrated into a comfortable, user-friendly wearable device rather than requiring complex laboratory procedures.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables continuous, accurate monitoring of prohibited drug use with high sensitivity and specificity, suitable for use on humans, animals, and packaging, providing reliable detection of toxic substances and contamination.
Implementation Method 1
surface-enhanced Raman scattering patch that includes: a film configured to allow a penetration of detection-target molecules; a metal-containing nanostructure layer formed on the film; and a protective layer formed on the metal-containing nanostructure layer to prevent an entry of outside substances
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a surface-enhanced Raman scattering patch and an attachable sensor using same. More particularly, the present invention relates to a surface-enhanced Raman scattering patch which allows continuous monitoring of drug administration and harmful substance detection to be accurately and easily performed, an attachable sensor using same, and a method for manufacturing same.