NUCLEAR MAGNETIC RESONANCE (NMR) MINIATURIZATION FOR SPECTROSCOPY: A PLATFORM FOR PORTABLE AND SENSITIVE PROBING

The aim of this project is to overcome the challenges associated with the miniaturized nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy to have a sensitive and portable sensor platform for in-situ probing.

For doing this, we will develop technologies to provide a concentrated and stable magnetic field against the perturbations as well as enhancing the sensitivity of the transceiver and RF micro coil. The key innovative ideas will be used to achieve the goals.

To enhance the intensity of exciting magnetic field, we will develop a magnetic lens incorporated into the spiral excitation micro coil on PCB.

In addition, when it comes to the static magnet, we will focus on Halbach structure due to the relative field homogeneity in its center and apply appropriate materials with higher temperature resilience in the magnet together with an embedded auxiliary shim coil for realizing a magnetic stabilization feedback.

Noise canceling and adaptive power control techniques will also be exploited in development of low-noise amplifier and power amplifier to enhance the sensitivity of µNMR spectroscopy.

The outcome of this research will generate highly specialized knowledge targeting to provide frontline technology of µNMR spectroscopy that can be used in diverse applications like chemistry, biology, medicine, and industry.

This interdisciplinary project will benefit during four years form the collaboration between the PI, two participating researchers, and one Ph.D. student.