Enhancing Doping Detection of Trenbolone Acetate Using SERS Combined with Drop-Coating Deposition Raman Spectroscopy

Moses Wabwile Juma

Abstract: This study investigates the combined use of surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) and drop-coating deposition Raman (DCDR) for detecting trenbolone acetate, a banned doping agent, at sub-ppb levels. Silver nanoparticles were synthesized and evaluated under 532nm and 785nm laser excitations to identify optimal conditions for spectral enhancement. Results revealed a 60-fold signal enhancement when SERS was combined with DCDR, compared to 11-fold when SERS was used alone. Signal acquisition at the coffee ring edge provided improved intensity, and regression analysis confirmed a detection limit of 9ppb, consistent with World Anti-Doping Agency guidelines. These findings highlight the value of integrating DCDR with SERS to enhance sensitivity in anti-doping applications.

Keywords: Raman spectroscopy, SERS, DCDR, trenbolone acetate, doping detection

How to Cite?: Moses Wabwile Juma, "Enhancing Doping Detection of Trenbolone Acetate Using SERS Combined with Drop-Coating Deposition Raman Spectroscopy", Volume 14 Issue 12, December 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 262-267, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251203010258, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251203010258