Hyperpolarised portable NMR for targeted analytical solutions beyond the laboratory (HYPERSOL)

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In science, access to new data drives innovation. Disruptive technologies transform research by providing quantitativeinformation in a simple and cost-effective way. Consider, for example, the impact of gene sequencing technology onapplications from human health to forensics. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is a powerful technique thathas revolutionised the physical and biological sciences. However, standard NMR spectrometers are large and expensive,meaning they are confined to dedicated technical facilities. The potential to generate a step change in NMR exists if thedetector could be taken out of the lab and brought to the sample. The challenge is to achieve this without sacrificing thesensitivity and chemical resolving power of laboratory NMR. The unique innovation of the Hyperpolarised NMR Solutionsbeyond the Laboratory (HyperSoL) project is a new method to amplify the NMR response of hydrogen and carbon by factorsof >1000-fold. By accessing chemical information about carbon as well as hydrogen, this method will enhance both thesensitivity and chemical discrimination of portable NMR devices. The HyperSoL project will develop two approaches basedon both commercial and bespoke NMR instrumentation. These methods will maintain instrument portability, while amplifyingsensitivity and chemical resolution for quantifying analytes at natural isotopic abundance. Harnessing this new portable NMRtechnology will liberate NMR from the laboratory, transforming the way that it is used in such disparate areas asmanufacturing, environmental monitoring, forensics and field testing. The fundamental advances that are required tosuccessfully realise this vision can be uniquely delivered by the PI, who has an international track record in advancing NMRdevelopment through fundamental nuclear spin research. This grant would provide the PI with the necessary resources toconsolidate her position as a world-leader in portable NMR technology development.