Ultra-wide bore 900 MHz high-resolution NMR at the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory

Area of Science:

• Physics and Chemistry
• Biophysics
• Materials Science

Background:

• Ultra-wide bore magnets are crucial for high-field Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and Magnetic Resonance (MR) imaging.
• Advancements in magnet technology enable novel applications and improved resolution in scientific research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the development and successful energization of a 21.1 T ultra-wide bore magnet.
• To showcase the magnet's capabilities for various NMR spectroscopy and MR imaging applications.
• To explore the potential for future high-field magnet designs.

Main Methods:

• Development, design, manufacturing, and testing of a 105 mm bore 21.1 T magnet at the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory.
• Installation and testing of commercial and homebuilt probes with a standard NMR console.
• Application of the spectrometer for solution NMR, solid-state NMR, and animal imaging.

Main Results:

• Achieved enhanced resolution in solution NMR of membrane proteins.
• Developed new pulse sequences for solid-state NMR utilizing narrowed proton linewidths.
• Demonstrated enhanced spatial resolution and contrast in animal imaging.
• Recorded (17)O spectra of labeled macromolecules in lipid bilayers rapidly.
• Showcased potential for orientational restraints and cation binding studies using (17)O spectra.

Conclusions:

• The 21.1 T ultra-wide bore magnet facilitates significant advances in NMR spectroscopy and MR imaging.
• The magnet's capabilities support novel applications in biophysics and materials science.
• The design demonstrates potential for future NMR magnets exceeding 25 T with superconducting insert coils.