Raman and SERS identification of YABA, a popular street drug

Importance of the Topic

Yaba tablets combine high levels of caffeine and methamphetamine in a colored matrix, posing analytical challenges for law enforcement and forensic investigations. Rapid, reliable identification of these active ingredients at the point of interdiction is essential for timely decision making.

Study Objectives and Overview

This work demonstrates a dual analytical approach using handheld Raman spectroscopy for major component screening and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) for trace-level detection. The goal is to establish a rapid, in-field workflow capable of identifying both caffeine and methamphetamine in Yaba tablets.

Methodology and Instrumentation

A two-tiered analytical protocol was implemented:

• Bulk Raman Analysis: A MIRA DS Advanced handheld Raman spectrometer with orbital-raster-scan (ORS) technology was used to perform nondestructive, through-coating analysis directly on intact tablets.
• SERS Trace Analysis: An ID Kit – Ag P-SERS was employed for sample preparation, including tablet pulverization, ethyl acetate extraction, and adsorption onto silver P-SERS strips for enhanced detection of minor components.

Key Results and Discussion

Handheld Raman measurement yielded a high-quality match to caffeine (Hit Quality Index = 0.81) within seconds. Subsequent SERS analysis provided clear spectral identification of methamphetamine without interference from excipients, coatings, or fillers. The complementary nature of Raman and SERS enabled comprehensive profiling of both dominant and trace constituents.

Benefits and Practical Applications

The combined Raman/SERS workflow offers:

• Rapid, onsite presumptive identification of illicit stimulant tablets.
• Minimal sample preparation and nondestructive evaluation.
• Through-container and field-deployable capabilities that reduce operator exposure to unknown substances.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Advancements may include expanded spectral libraries for emerging drug analogs, integration of artificial intelligence for automated interpretation, and miniaturization of SERS substrates for seamless handheld integration. Broader adoption could enhance forensic, security, and quality control applications in diverse field settings.

Conclusion

The MIRA DS system, combined with SERS technology, provides a powerful, dual-mode solution for rapid field screening of Yaba tablets. By enabling both bulk identification and trace analysis in a single handheld instrument, this workflow supports law enforcement efforts and forensic laboratories in the fight against illicit drug distribution.

References

• Metrohm AG. AN-RS-033. Raman and SERS identification of YABA, a popular street drug.