Polarization Sample Geometry for Hyperpolarized Material Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for expelling samples from cryogenic environments in hyperpolarization processes result in rapid polarization loss due to exposure to non-cryogenic temperatures and low magnetic fields, with fragile solid pellets leading to sample damage and prolonged melting times, necessitating a method for controlled sample expulsion and rapid temperature adjustment.
Innovation Solution
A cylindrical shell with a thin annular layer of frozen sample and a supporting wad provides mechanical strength and thermal contact, allowing for controlled sample geometry and rapid ejection, minimizing exposure to detrimental conditions and facilitating quick temperature adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a solid pellet is used for sample expulsion, then the sample can be rapidly moved in/out of cryostats, but the pellet becomes fragile and powderized during high velocity expulsion
Solution Approach 1:
The sample is segmented into multiple small particles or droplets rather than a single solid pellet. This segmentation prevents the sample from becoming fragile and powderizing during high velocity expulsion, as the smaller particles can better withstand the mechanical stresses of rapid movement through the gas stream.
Solution Approach 2:
The physical state of the sample is changed from solid pellet to a different form (such as suspended particles or droplets) that maintains integrity at high velocities. This parameter change in the sample's physical configuration allows it to survive the expulsion process without becoming powderized.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If a solid pellet is used, then the sample can be expelled in solid state, but it requires relatively long time to warm and melt
Solution Approach 1:
Segmenting the sample into smaller particles or droplets dramatically increases the surface area to volume ratio, enabling much faster heat transfer during warming. This allows the sample to quickly pass through the 'Valleys of Death' temperature ranges and melt rapidly upon contact with the liquid stream, reducing the time loss while maintaining polarization.
Solution Approach 2:
The sample is transformed from a three-dimensional solid pellet to a dispersed collection of smaller particles or droplets, effectively changing its dimensional characteristics. This dimensional change enables rapid thermal equilibration and quick phase transition from solid to liquid state.
3Ease of manufacture
If superheated hot water or buffered liquids are used to melt the polarized material, then the material can be expelled from the cryostat, but the hyperpolarized solution must be employed immediately as polarization does not last more than a minute or two
Solution Approach 1:
The sample is pre-cooled to cryogenic temperatures and maintained in a frozen or semi-frozen state during expulsion, rather than being melted immediately. This preliminary cooling action preserves the hyperpolarization during transport and handling, allowing the sample to be stored and transported before use, extending the effective polarization duration beyond the immediate one or two minutes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically controls the temperature state of the sample throughout the process - maintaining it frozen during expulsion and transport, then allowing controlled melting only when ready for use. This dynamic temperature control optimizes both the ease of manipulation and the duration of polarization preservation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables prolonged preservation of polarization by reducing sample exposure to rapid relaxation conditions, enhancing handling and storage capabilities, and allowing for remote location of the polarizing cryostat.
Implementation Method 1
a thin annular layer of frozen sample... provides mechanical strength and thermal contact
Implementation Method 2
Current commercial polarizers typically utilize cryogenic temperatures
Implementation Method 3
they melt the polarized material inside the polarizing cryostat
Data Source
AI summary
A carrier for a sample of highly polarized material includes a shell having a radially exterior surface and a radially interior surface, and a sample of highly polarized material interiorly adjacent to the radially interior surface. The shell may be substantially cylindrical, and may be constructed from a magnetic or non-magnetic material. The sample of highly polarized material may comprise a methyl rotor group material. The sample of highly polarized material may comprise pyruvic acid or an acetic acid. The sample of highly polarized material may be co-axial with the cylindrical shell. The sample of highly polarized material may be bonded or frozen to the radially interior surface of the shell. The carrier may further comprise a wad of material that forms a volume and contacts an axially proximate end of at least one of the shell or the sample.