Research Symposium

BIO

I am a 3rd year biochemistry student. I have been helping Mr. Litvak with his research on NMR at NHMFL for almost 2 years. In the future, I wish to attend medical school and pursue a career in obstetrics and gynecology. I spend my free time volunteering at the TMH child care center, the VA clinic, the mental health hotline, Learn To Be, and Baptist Health. I also enjoy leading two student organizations at FSU.

Improving NMR Line Resolution of 1.5 mm 600 MHz ¹³C-optimized Ultrasensitive NMR Probe With HTS-based RF Resonators

Abstract

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is a powerful technique for structural analysis down to atomic level - from small molecules, to proteins, to materials. To achieve high resolution, NMR requires very high uniformity of magnetic field – down to parts per billion across the volume of the sample. NHMFL houses a unique 1.5 mm 600 MHz ¹H-¹³C ultrasensitive NMR probe built with superconducting radiofrequency coils. The probe is available, free of charge, to researchers across the globe through the Magnet Lab User Program.

In pursuit of higher homogeneity and improved signal line shape, we are measuring the profiles of the strength of both the rf field of the ¹H coil (B₁) and that of the static field of the magnet (B₀). NMR magnets have built-in electric coils (shim coils), which can be used to correct the profile of the B₀ field. We will use the known field profiles of the individual shim coils and the acquired map of the B₀ field as guides on how to fine-tune the currents on the coils to further improve the homogeneity of the field. We will share the latest updates on the project.

Keywords: NMR Magnet Shim