Surface-enhanced Raman scattering from magneto-metal nanoparticle assemblies

► Fe3O4@Au nanoparticle as substrates for SERS. ► The Fe3O4@Au nanoparticles are modified with analytes and magnetically separated. ► The non-optimized detection limit is 4.55 pM p-thiocresol ethanol-water solution. ► The detection sensitivity and reproducibility of SERS is improved.