Force-detected Nuclear Magnetic Resonance

TL;DR

Force-detected NMR is a highly sensitive technique that enhances NMR detection by using force measurement, enabling 3D MRI at nanometer resolution and showing promising future improvements.

Contribution

This paper reviews the principles, history, and recent advancements of force-detected NMR, highlighting its application in high-resolution 3D MRI at the nanoscale.

Findings

Demonstrated 3D NMR imaging with nanometer resolution.

Reviewed recent developments and potential improvements.

Compared force-detected NMR with other detection technologies.

Abstract

The drive to improve the sensitivity of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) to smaller and smaller sample volumes has led to the development of a variety of techniques distinct from conventional inductive detection. In this chapter, we focus on the technique of force-detected NMR as one of the most successful in yielding sensitivity improvements. We review the rationale for the technique, its basic principles, and give a brief history of its most important results. We then cover in greater detail its application in the first demonstration of three-dimensional (3D) nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with nanometer-scale resolution. Next we present recent developments and likely paths for improvement. Finally, the technique and its potential are discussed in the context of competing and complementary technologies.