Low-Cost Solution for Optical NMR Hyperpolarization
Department
Chemistry
Major
Chemistry
Research Advisor
Woelk, Klaus
Advisor's Department
Chemistry
Funding Source
Ozark Biomedical Institute & Materials Research Foundation
Abstract
Hyperpolarization can boost the low sensitivity of NMR spectroscopy and medical MRI, making it possible to record spectra of samples too dilute for standard NMR analyses. A laser excitation system for optical hyperpolarization is introduced, where the beam of a low-cost 350-nm laser, controlled by a homebuilt shutter, is coupled into the sample by a multimode fiber. A modified 5-mm Shigemi tube accommodates the sample at the end of the fiber. The NMR pulse program sends a signal to a microcontroller that then operates the shutter. Irradiation and spectrum acquisition are synchronized, which also minimizes undesirable photobleaching. The new hyperpolarization system is smaller and less expensive than previously reported systems. A standard shutter costs over $2,000 while the microcontroller and fiber coupler sleeve total $85.35 (cost reduction of 96%). Spectra obtained with the new shutter setup provide an attractive solution for enhancing NMR signals in optical hyperpolarization experiments.
Biography
Lucas Albrecht is from St. Louis, Missouri. He has a passion for chemistry and has a background in chemical engineering. He joined Dr. Woelk’s research team in March 2019 and has contributed to the design of the NMR apparatus and to the oral presentation on the apparatus. His goal is to enter into a chemical industry, and design a controllable, multi-purpose nanostructure. He is currently participating as an officer in the student led chapter of the ACS, the W.T. Schrenk Society, which is active in community outreach, solving global chemical problems, and inspiring an interest in chemistry to young Americans.
Research Category
Sciences
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Document Type
Poster
Location
Upper Atrium
Presentation Date
16 Apr 2019, 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Low-Cost Solution for Optical NMR Hyperpolarization
Upper Atrium
Hyperpolarization can boost the low sensitivity of NMR spectroscopy and medical MRI, making it possible to record spectra of samples too dilute for standard NMR analyses. A laser excitation system for optical hyperpolarization is introduced, where the beam of a low-cost 350-nm laser, controlled by a homebuilt shutter, is coupled into the sample by a multimode fiber. A modified 5-mm Shigemi tube accommodates the sample at the end of the fiber. The NMR pulse program sends a signal to a microcontroller that then operates the shutter. Irradiation and spectrum acquisition are synchronized, which also minimizes undesirable photobleaching. The new hyperpolarization system is smaller and less expensive than previously reported systems. A standard shutter costs over $2,000 while the microcontroller and fiber coupler sleeve total $85.35 (cost reduction of 96%). Spectra obtained with the new shutter setup provide an attractive solution for enhancing NMR signals in optical hyperpolarization experiments.
