An improved surface plasmon resonance imaging apparatus

The design, construction, and initial use of an improved surface plasmon resonance imaging instrument are described. The instrument construction allows for introduction of large samples (50×50 mm) and is arranged with a unique horizontal sample geometry. This horizontal geometry provides for the eventual introduction of standard robotics both for substrate handling and liquid delivery, as with other commercialized analytical imaging techniques. The versatile optical train makes the instrument ideal for a wide range of sample sizes and provides for variable lateral resolution. Very small variations in colloidal Au coverage are detected on a patterned substrate, thereby demonstrating the utility of colloidal Au as a surface plasmon resonance imaging contrast reagent.