NIST has developed a revolutionary microchip that integrates an atomic magnetometer and microfluidic channel, enabling compact nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems. The device, which can be manufactured using conventional microfabrication techniques, offers superior detection limits compared to conventional inductive detection. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize NMR and MRI applications by making them more accessible, affordable, and portable.
The microchip’s atomic magnetometer, based on near resonant laser beam technology, can detect magnetic flux from polarized nuclear samples. This allows for NMR and MRI measurements without the need for cryogenic cooling, making the technology more practical for industrial and medical applications. The device’s compact size and low-cost production capabilities make it suitable for mass production and widespread use in various industries, including pharmaceuticals for parallel drug assays.
Keywords: Magnetometer, Alkali vapor cell, Microfluidic channel, Atomic magnetometer, NMR
