Particle Physics Seminar: NMR Gyroscope based on hyperpolarized noble-gas nuclear spin

Abstract:

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) of noble gases is widely used in various applications and fundamental research, including medical imaging, precision sensing, and searches for new physics. One reason for its widespread use is the extremely long coherence time of the NMR, which can potentially last for many hours. This is due to the protection against decoherence provided by the closed electronic shells of noble gases. Additionally, it is possible to achieve a high signal-to-noise ratio of NMR measurements by hyperpolarizing the noble gas spins through spin exchange collisions with optically pumped alkali atoms. These features, along with the rotational sensitivity of the spins, make NMR a suitable technique for implementing a very precise and stable gyroscope. With the development of compact solid-state lasers, it is now possible to miniaturize these gyroscopes while maintaining high performance. In this work, we present the development of an experimental NMR gyroscope system. We describe the physical working principle of the device and demonstrate its static performance in terms of noise and drift. We discuss the implementation of a dual noble gas species scheme to reduce the device's sensitivity to magnetic noises. We discuss the implementation of such devices in searches for new physics. Finally, we provide a theoretical calculation for the projected performance of the device.
 

Seminar Organizer: Dr. Adi Ashkanzi