Patent ID: 6566875
Filing Date: 2003-05-20
Classification: G01R,Y10S

Abstract:
A method of monitoring the polarization of hyperpolarized gas, in transit, using NMR and/or MRI comprising the steps of:generating a magnetic holding field having a region of homogeneity; transporting a quantity of hyperpolarized gas from a first site to a second site in a shielded portable transport container configured to encase a vessel holding the hyperpolarized gas therein in a manner which inhibits the depolarization of the hyperpolarized gas during transport; transmitting a predetermined excitation pulse during the transporting step to the quantity of hyperpolarized gas at least once during said transporting step; receiving a NMR and/or MR response signal corresponding to the response of the hyperpolarized gas to the excitation pulse during the transporting step; and determining the level of polarization of the hyperpolarized gas based the received response signal.