Dynamic Nuclear Polarization for NMR

Dynamic Nuclear Polarization

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) is a long-recognized powerful analytical tool. Its only drawback is the lack of sensitivity which precludes some of the most demanding applications, such as determining the molecular structures of proteins in membranes, or of molecules adsorbed on catalysts or electrode surfaces. 

It is now possible to carry out high field NMR (proton frequencies of 400 MHz or above) and excite electron spin resonance simultaneously. This requires sources of millimeter waves at frequencies of 263 GHz or more.

The interest for boosting the sensitivity of NMR is enourmous. A European COST Action (TD1103) has been set in place. The participants interested in hardware issues have created a list of their respective coordinates (see link at the bottom of the WG1 page).