Author: Zoe W

DNP and NMR Research at UNH

DNP and NMR

Zoe Wolters

Microwaves cause the unpaired electrons in the target material to become polarized and change their energy states. The polarized electrons induce polarization of the nuclei, this is known as dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) . Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) is born from the interactions between the nuclear spins in a strong magnetic field. The presence of a strong magnetic field can create observable and measurable transitions between spin states. The long term goal is to develop tensor polarized target technology for the spin dependent program at Jefferson Lab.

How do we achieve DNP?

Temperatures at approximately 1K
Superconducting solenoid that generates a magnetic field of 5T
Microwaves directed at target material

Target Stick

Within the fridge space
Contains target ladder at the lower end of the stick
- Target ladder contains capsule of target material (deuterated material)
- Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) coils are wrapped around ladder
Throughout the stick is the waveguide, to guide microwaves to target material
The current target stick only deals with deuterons, in the future I will develop a target stick that handles protons

PID Controller

Solves the issue of valves freezing due to extremely cold temperatures. PID controller is connected to thermocouple and heater that is attached to valve.