A larger .pdf version of this figure is available at the URL listed below.

Scientists at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, led by Alex Pines, are world leaders in magnetic identification and imaging concepts and techniques used worldwide in science and industry. Both nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are based on the tiny magnetic moments produced by the "spin" of atomic nuclei; NMR provides spectra for use in identifying molecules, whereas MRI produces recognizable images. The Pines group's research has extended the applicability of NMR to a wide range of problems and materials, including biological systems. They also applied their new methods to study novel materials such as nanocrystals, liquid crystals, and zeolites. Recently, they helped develop a technique in which hyperpolarized gas molecules transfer added momentum to other atomic nuclei, increasing the sensitivity of NMR of molecules in solution and MRIs of materials and organisms, a major step toward extending the power of these techniques in chemistry and biology. The group also developed methods that allow for the use of very low magnetic fields in MRI and may eliminate the need for large, costly magnets in these instruments.

Scientific Impact: These novel concepts and techniques have revolutionized the study of structure, dynamics, and function in solid materials and other systems that previously were inaccessible to NMR investigations. Low-field MRI is ideal for studying highly porous, magnetic materials and fossils and rocks.

Social Impact: These techniques and instruments have been licensed and incorporated into commercial NMR technology used worldwide. A company has licensed the low-field MRI technology to develop medical applications. In addition, Pines has trained about 200 scientists, of whom many now hold leading positions in academia and industry.

Reference: Y.Q. Song, B.M. Goodson, and A. Pines, "NMR and MRI Using Laser-Polarized Xenon," Spectroscopy, (14) 26-33 (July 1999).

URL: http://www.lbl.gov/msd/PIs/Pines/99/99_1_Low_field.html

Technical Contact: Don Freeburn, Office of Basic Energy Sciences, 301-903-3156

Press Contact: Jeff Sherwood, DOE Office of Public Affairs, 202-586-5806

SC-Funding Office: Office of Basic Energy Sciences