Abstract

A method and apparatus for hyperpolarization of flowing noble gases is disclosed, including means for hyperpolarization of noble gases in a continuous flow arrangement. Noble gases such as xenon-129 and helium-3 can be hyperpolarized using the disclosed method and apparatus. Preferably, the noble gas is hyperpolarized via spin exchange between atoms of the noble gas and an alkali metal such as rubidium. Also, a method and apparatus for accumulation and/or storage of hyperpolarized noble gases in a continuous flow arrangement is provided. The method and apparatus enable large scale production, storage, and usage of hyperpolarized noble gases for numerous purposes, including imaging of human and animal subjects through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques.

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