From single to multiple Ag-layer modification of Au nanocavity substrates: a tunable probe of the chemical surface-enhanced Raman scattering mechanism.

We present experimental and computational results that enlighten the mechanisms underlying the chemical contribution to surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). Gold void metallic arrays electrochemically covered either by a Ag monolayer or 10-100 Ag layers were modified with a self-assembled monolayer of 4-mercaptopyridine as a molecular Raman probe displaying a rich and unexpected Raman response. A resonant increase of the Raman intensity in the red part of the spectrum is observed that cannot be related to plasmon excitations of the cavity-array.