Patent ID: 6526778
Filing Date: 2003-03-04
Classification: A61K,F17C,G01R,Y10S,Y10T

Abstract:
A method for storing, transporting, and delivering hyperpolarized gas to a target, comprising the steps of:hyperpolarizing a quantity of noble gas with spin exchange with an alkali metal; introducing a quantity of hyperpolarized gas into an expandable multi-layer container having opposing walls defined by multiple layers of materials, wherein the multiple layers of the container walls are securely attached together such that they are concurrently responsive to the application of pressure thereon, and wherein one of said layers is formed of a material resistant to the migration of oxygen into the container, and also wherein the hyperpolarized gas is processed such that it is non-toxic and substantially free of alkali metal and thereby suitable for in vivo administration; sealing the container to retain the hyperpolarized gas therein; transporting the container to a site remote from the hyperpolarization site; and compressing the container to collapse the chamber and force the hyperpolarized gas to exit therefrom, thereby delivering the hyperpolarized gas to a target.