Improved Excitation Schemes for Multiple-Quantum Magic-Angle Spinning for Quadrupolar Nuclei Designed Using Optimal Control Theory

Abstract

We have investigated the use of optimal control theory for the design of improved multiple-quantum excitation schemes for the popular multiple-quantum magic-angle spinning NMR experiment for quadrupolar nuclei with half-integer quadrupolar spin. The advantage of the new low-power experiments, termed OCFASTER, is demonstrated by sensitivity improvements approaching 50% for 87Rb in RbClO4 and RbNO3 as compared to FASTER and standard strong-pulse excitation schemes.