Hyperpolarisation method and apparatus

Abstract

In a method for preparing a hyperpolarised sample, for example for carrying out a magnetic resonance technique, the sample is formed as a frozen layer (4) of a starting solution on a surface of a thermoconductive sample holder (1,2). The solution comprises molecules for hyperpolarisation, and photo-reactive molecules. Free radicals are induced in the frozen layer by exposing it to radiation. The sample is then hyperpolarised by dynamic nuclear polarization at a dynamic nuclear polarization temperature. After hyperpolarisation, the temperature of the sample is raised to a thermalisation or quenching temperature by thermal conduction of heat through the sample holder, to quench the free radicals. The polarised sample may then be stored for use, retaining its polarisation.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.