Patent ID: 6651459
Filing Date: 2003-11-25
Classification: A61K,G01R

Abstract:
A method of hyperpolarizing a gas sample, the method comprising the steps of:a. cryogenically forming a solidified gas structure from the sample gas, the solidified gas structure being surrounded by 3He; b. applying a magnetic field to the solidified gas structure and the 3He to thereby polarize the solidified gas structure; and c. removing the 3He to thereby leave a solidified gas structure of hyperpolarized sample gas, characterized in that step (c) comprises the steps of: i. increasing the temperature of the solidified gas structure; ii. introducing 4He into the region surrounding the solidified gas structure to thereby displace the 3He; and iii. pumping the 3He and the 4He away from the solidified gas structure.