A new semi-quantitative Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) method for detection of maleimide (2,5-pyrroledione) with potential application to astrobiology

Abstract

Nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compounds are fundamental biochemical components of all life on Earth and, presumably, life elsewhere in our solar system. Detection and characterization of these compounds by traditional solvent extraction, chromatographic separation, and GC–MS analysis require more sample mass than will be available from samples returned to Earth from Mars. With its small sample mass requirement, Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy could be an appropriate technique for analysis of returned samples. We have developed a SERS method for the detection of maleimide (2,5-pyrroledione), an N-containing heterocycle with a structure that is widespread in biochemicals. This semi-quantitative methodology accurately determines maleimide concentration in the range from 60 µg/mL to 120 µg/mL. We present a maleimide SERS standard spectrum which will be useful as a reference for future works. The present work demonstrates an easy, accurate, and effective method for the non-destructive qualitative and semi-quantitative study of maleimide as a first step toward developing a method for analysis of related compounds.