Optically Polarized ¹²⁹Xe in NMR Spectroscopy*

Abstract

Abstract 129 Xe has found widespread applications in NMR spectroscopy, but its use is often restricted by its low sensitivity and long relaxation times. Optical pumping of rubidium followed by spin exchange with xenon provides a well understood technique to enhance the 129 XePolarization by several orders of magnitude. The exploitation of this highly spin‐polarized xenon as a surface probe in NMR studies of various meterials is discussed. Applications of this technique make use not only of 129 Xe NMR detection, but also of the‐high spin polarization as a magnetization reservoir for selective cross‐polarization experiments to surface nuclei. A diverse variety of materials has been studied, ranging from mesoscopic structures such as semiconductor nanocrystals and porous silicon to high surface area polymers.