Characterization of porous media structure by non linear NMR methods

In this paper we discuss the possibility of modifying the multiple spin echoes existing theory, developed for a homogeneous system, to describe also an inhomogeneous system such as a porous medium. We report here the first experimental application of MSE methods to materials like travertine. The ratio A(2)/A(1) from water in travertine presents minima for characteristic values of the delay time tau, like what was previously observed in the trabecular bone. By a judicious choice of the delay time tau and of the G gradient strength, the MSE sequence can be made sensitive to a specific length-scale of the sample heterogeneity. Furthermore the MSE image shows a particular new contrast that makes the non linear NMR method very attractive for the assessment of variations of the porous structure in porous systems.