Dynamic Nuclear Polarization

Dynamic Nuclear Polarization (DNP) is a technique used to enhance the signals in certain types of magnetic resonance imaging or spectroscopy. It works by transferring the higher polarization of electron spins—because electrons have a larger magnetic moment—onto nearby nuclear spins, like those in atomic nuclei. When electrons are manipulated with microwaves at very low temperatures and strong magnetic fields, their high polarization boosts the alignment of nuclear spins. This results in stronger signals, allowing scientists to observe detailed structures or processes in materials, biological tissues, or chemicals more effectively and with greater sensitivity.