Laser Spin-Exchange Polarized He-3 and Xe-129 for Diagnostics of Gas-Permeable Media with Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Abstract
Major advances in the physics and technology for the production and utilization of laser-polarized He-3 and Xe-129 have resulted from this DARPA-sponsored research. A high-capacity polarizer and accumulator for Xe-129 has been developed and has been successfully transferred to the commercial sector. We have developed a powerful new method for imaging the three-dimensional distribution of the electronic spin polarization of the alkalimetal vapors used for spin-exchange optical pumping of He-3 and Xe-129. Absolute electronic spin polarizations are obtained. We have demonstrated that the intrinsic spin-exchange efficiency for polarizing He-3 is ten times better with optically pumped K vapor than with the currently used Rb vapor. Using equipment with key technological features resulting from this work, collaborators at the University of Virginia Medical School now make routine use of He-3 lung images of patients scheduled for lung resection surgery.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA362475
Entities
People
- William Happer
Organizations
- Princeton University