A Rapid Sample Injector for Nuclear Magnetic Resonance

Case Number: 2739TAMU08

Applications:
NMR
Dynamic Nuclear Polarization
Analytical Chemical Instrumentation and Research

Description of Invention:
      This invention describes a system for very rapid injection of samples into an NMR spectrometer. NMR is widely used in the characterization of organic molecules, but conventional techniques to introduce samples into the instrument are slow. This new technology offers a fresh, powerful capability to researchers in the chemical and biological sciences for the study dynamic processes, such as rapidly reacting systems, by NMR. Sample injection is accomplished in less than 500 milliseconds, and the system can accommodate admixing of two components immediately before analysis. A special design feature suppresses bubble formation from the out-gassing of dissolved gases.
      The system was developed specifically for use with dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) wherein a sample is placed into a short-lived, non-equilibrium state before analysis. The applications are not limited to DNP however, and the system may find broader applications whenever rapid liquid sample transfer is needed.
      The invention is based on existing commercial sample injection valves and a novel computer controlled injection sequence. An example study illustrating the usefulness of this system in determining the kinetics of an enzyme reaction is available in the following recent paper: Bowen, S., and Hilty, C., "Time Resolved Dynamic Nuclear Polarization Enhanced NMR", Angew. Chemie Intern. Version, 120 (28), 5313-5315 (2008).
      This invention should be of interest to analytical instrumentation manufacturers or suppliers, especially those involved in NMR equipment. The system is in an advanced stage of development and a prototype device is available for evaluation by prospective licensees. Patent and copyright pending.

Inventors:
Prof. Christian Hilty and Mr. Sean Bowen
Dept. of Chemistry
Texas A&M University, College Station

Contact:
Elaine A. Lange, Ph.D.
Licensing Manager
Office of Technology Commercialization
The Texas A&M University System
MS 3369 TAMU
College Station, TX 77843-3369
ph/vm 979.845.2689
e-lange@tamu.edu

Taxonomy: Analytical Methods and Instrumentation, Research Tools
Status: Licensing

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