Detailed Modeling of Surface-Plasmon Resonance Spectrometer Response for Accurate Correction

Area of Science:

• Spectroscopy
• Nanotechnology
• Physical Chemistry

Background:

• Surface-plasmon resonance (SPR) spectroscopy is crucial for analyzing molecular interactions at the nanoscale.
• Accurate modeling of SPR systems is essential for reliable experimental data interpretation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a comprehensive transfer function model for an experimental SPR spectroscopy setup.
• To enable precise comparison between theoretical predictions and experimental outcomes.
• To facilitate the analysis of analyte dynamics at the nanometer scale.

Main Methods:

• Experimental and theoretical determination of transfer functions for individual SPR system components (light source, polarizers, spectrometer, optical fibers, SPR sensor).
• Modeling of the SPR sensor using characteristic matrix theory with optical constants of prism, gold film, chromium layer, and analyte.
• Integration of component transfer functions into a complete system model.

Main Results:

• A comprehensive system model was created by combining individual component transfer functions.
• The model successfully reproduced experimental SPR spectra with over 95% similarity.
• The model's accuracy allows for precise correction of measured spectra.

Conclusions:

• The developed transfer function model accurately represents the experimental SPR spectroscopy setup.
• This validated model is vital for accurate spectral correction and advanced analysis of nanosuspensions and dissolved molecules.
• The system's operational range was effectively extended by understanding signal-to-noise constraints.