The use of surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) for detection of PAHs in the Gulf of Gdańsk (Baltic Sea)

► A SERS sensor system was applied for the first time in-situ to detect PAHs. ► SERS was compared to GC/MS at 6 Baltic Sea coastal stations. ► SERS and GC/MS were in agreement at high PAH concentrations in seawater. ► The SERS sensor can be applied as an alarm sensor for high PAH pollution. ► SERS spectra indicated presence of PAHs and organic molecules in coastal waters.