Session B4: Polarized Atoms

10:30 AM–12:42 PM, Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Clark Hall - 108

Chair: Tom Gentile, National Institute of Standards and Technology

Abstract ID: BAPS.2009.DAMOP.B4.5

Abstract: B4.00005 : Using MR imaging methods for measurement of 3-He cells during pumping

11:18 AM–11:30 AM

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Authors:

  Steven Parnell
    (University of Sheffield)

  Martin Deppe
    (University of Sheffield)

  Stephen Boag
    (ISIS, STFC)

  Mark Boyce
    (mark.boyce@stfc.ac.uk)

  Selma Ajraoui
    (University of Sheffield)

  Juan Parra-Robles
    (University of Sheffield)

  Jim Wild
    (University of Sheffield)

We present details of a system for 1-D MR imaging and diffusion measurements of 3He cells during optical pumping. We have implemented at 10G a 1-D gradient system and we use a gradient echo pulse for imaging and bi-polar gradients to allow measurements of the diffusion constant. We perform 1-D imaging for monitoring the spatial distribution of the gas polarisation in the cell (important in 129Xe). For diffusion we measure a number of cells. In free diffusion, as is the case in large cells the diffusion constant can be used as a measure of cell pressure and temperature. The system is used to measure the pressure in sealed cells and compared with neutron transmission measurements. Finally we investigate the effects of heating from the laser in the cells.

To cite this abstract, use the following reference: http://meetings.aps.org/link/BAPS.2009.DAMOP.B4.5