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Ultra-low-field MRI for the detection of liquid explosives

Ultra-low-field MRI for the detection of liquid explosives

Authors :
Algis V. Urbaitis
Igor Savukov
Robert H. Kraus
Shaun Newman
Christina J. Hanson
Per E. Magnelind
M. Flynn
M.V. Peters
Andrei N. Matlashov
Vadim Zotev
Henrik Sandin
Petr Volegov
Michelle A. Espy
T Owens
Karlene Maskaly
J.J. Gomez
Larry J. Schultz
Source :
Superconductor Science and Technology. 23:034023
Publication Year :
2010
Publisher :
IOP Publishing, 2010.

Abstract

Recently it has become both possible and practical to use magnetic resonance (MR) at magnetic fields in the range from µT to mT, the so-called ultra-low-field (ULF) regime. SQUID (superconducting quantum interference device) sensor technology allows for ultra-sensitive detection while pulsed pre-polarizing fields greatly enhance the signal. The instrumentation allows for unprecedented flexibility in signal acquisition sequences and simplified MRI instrumentation. Here we present results for a new application of ULF MRI and relaxometry for the detection and characterization of liquids. We briefly describe the motivation and advantages of the ULF MR approach, and present recent results from a seven-channel ULF MRI/relaxometer system constructed to non-invasively inspect liquids at a security checkpoint for the presence of hazardous material. The instrument was deployed at the Albuquerque International Airport in December 2008, and results from that endeavor are also presented.

Details

ISSN :
13616668 and 09532048
Volume :
23
Database :
OpenAIRE
Journal :
Superconductor Science and Technology
Accession number :
edsair.doi...........f1fc073ec469b5732c7fa2519802228b
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1088/0953-2048/23/3/034023