Abstract
Methods/Materials
The methods we used to bring down the cost of developing an NMR revolved mainly around having a small, non-uniform magnet with a strength of .43 Tesla (T). We used a radiofrequency generator to create pulses necessary for NMR usage. In order to regulate the length and delay of the pulses, we created three separate timer circuits. We also created circuits to amplify both the frequency inputted as well as received in order to compensate for the magnet strength. The received signal is then filtered to remove unwanted interference and directed to an oscilloscope and observed for analysis. The circuits were constructed from individual components, which lowered the manufacturing costs to under $400. We used a sample of water to test the viability of our method. The large number of hydrogen protons in the water would ideally display a noticeable change in received frequency.
Results
The prototype was successful in receiving and displaying signal from the resonance of hydrogen protons in the water sample. The signal strength observed lasted about 5 μs and included a noticeable change in signal height.
Conclusions/Discussion
A smaller MRI is plausible with a magnet strength of .43T. It has the potential to be applicable in field research and integrated into machines for imaging using smaller and less uniform magnets. Possible ways to improve both the design and signal quality would include using a more precise radiofrequency generator as well as having a higher quality coil to detect resonance and reduce interference observed through the system.
This project explores the possible implementation of a smaller, less uniform magnetic field in NMR in order to save costs and increase transportability.
Science Fair Project done By Kunal Rathi; Andrew Wong