Application of topological edge states in magnetic resonance imaging

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates the realization of topological edge modes in 1D metamaterial-inspired resonators and their application in enhancing sensitivity in clinical MRI using numerical simulations and experiments.

Contribution

It introduces a novel application of 1D topological systems in MRI, expanding the scope beyond 2D photonic implementations.

Findings

Topological edge modes can be realized in volumetric resonators.

Experimental validation on a 1.5 T MRI scanner shows feasibility.

Topological modes enhance radiofrequency coil sensitivity.

Abstract

Topological edge states in electromagnetic systems feature a set of attracting fundamental properties and unveil prospective applications based on disorder robustness and tailored localization. Despite active efforts in implementing topologically-protected waveguides in 2D photonic systems, applications of 1D topological systems remain almost uncharted. This letter demonstrates that topological edge modes can be realized in metamaterial-inspired volumetric resonators with a practical application in clinical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Performing numerical simulations and experiments with a 1.5 T MR scanner, we reconstruct the associated topological edge mode profiles and demonstrate their feasibility for sensitivity enhancement of conventional radiofrequency coils.