Embodiments of the present invention describe a MALDI (matrix-assisted
laser desorption and ionization) sample plate body that includes a
reusable sample plate and a sample plate adapter that are releasably
coupled to one another. In one particular embodiment, the sample plate
and the sample plate adapter are releasably coupled to one another to
form the MALDI sample plate body by a latch formed by a spring-loaded
hook within the sample plate adapter and a recess shaped to accept the
hook within the sample plate. The MALDI sample plate body may be formed
by aligning the sample plate with the sample plate adapter and coupling
the sample plate to the sample plate adapter to releasably couple the
sample plate to the sample plate adapter.