Spinning Driven Dynamic Nuclear Polarization with Optical Pumping

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel optical hyperpolarization method combining the Cross Effect and electron spin optical pumping, promising high efficiency and cost-effectiveness for high-field MAS-DNP without microwave irradiation.

Contribution

It demonstrates optical hyperpolarization in solids at low temperature and field, and integrates these findings into simulations showing potential for significant enhancements at high magnetic fields.

Findings

Optical hyperpolarization achieved in solids at low temperature and field.

Simulations indicate potential for >658-fold enhancement at high fields.

Method could reduce costs and performance issues in high-field MAS-DNP.

Abstract

We propose a new, more efficient, and potentially cost effective, solid-state nuclear spin hyperpolarization method combining the Cross Effect mechanism and electron spin optical hyperpolarization in rotating solids. We first demonstrate optical hyperpolarization in the solid state at low temperature and low field, and then investigate its field dependence to obtain the optimal condition for high-field electron spin hyperpolarization. The results are then incorporated into advanced Magic Angle Spinning Dynamic Nuclear Polarization (MAS-DNP) numerical simulations that show that optically pumped MAS-DNP could yield breakthrough enhancements at very high magnetic fields. Based on these investigations, enhancements greater than the ratio of electron to nucleus magnetic moments (>658 for 1H) are possible without microwave irradiation. This could solve at once the MAS-DNP performance decrease with increasing field and the high cost of MAS-DNP instruments at very high fields.