Hyperpolarized Nanodiamond Surfaces
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Updated: May 6, 2026
Assessment of Boron Doped Diamond Electrode Quality and Application to In Situ Modification of Local pH by Water Electrolysis
Published on: January 6, 2016
Ewa Rej1, Torsten Gaebel1, David E J Waddington1
1ARC Centre of Excellence for Engineered Quantum Systems, School of Physics, University of Sydney , Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia.
Abstract:
The widespread use of nanodiamond as a biomedical platform for drug-delivery, imaging, and subcellular tracking applications stems from its nontoxicity and unique quantum mechanical properties. Here, we extend this functionality to the domain of magnetic resonance, by demonstrating that the intrinsic electron spins on the nanodiamond surface can be used to hyperpolarize adsorbed liquid compounds at low fields and room temperature. By combining relaxation measurements with hyperpolarization, spins on the surface of the nanodiamond can be distinguished from those in the bulk liquid. These results are likely of use in signaling the controlled release of pharmaceutical payloads.
