Module Convenor:

Graham Smith
Gavin Morley
Jozef Lewandowski

Aims and objectives

The aim of the first part of this module is to introduce many of the most common techniques used in pulse EPR for measuring, understanding and exploiting electron-nuclear hyperfine interactions and electron-electron interactions. These will include single frequency techniques such as ESEEM and HYSCORE as well as double frequency techniques such as ENDOR for electron-nuclear and PELDOR for electron-electron interactions. The second half of the course will cover mechanisms, experimental methodologies and applications of Dynamic Nuclear Polarisation (DNP). By the end of the course the student should have an overview of both pulse EPR methodology and understand its generic use in materials science, physics and biology, and have an understanding of modern DNP methodologies.

Syllabus

• Pulsed EPR v Pulsed NMR
• Fourier Transform EPR and FID detection
• Relaxation times in EPR
• 2 pulse and 3 pulse ESEEM, Matched ESEEM and HYSCORE
• cw ENDOR, MIMS ENDOR and Davies ENDOR
• PELDOR, double quantum and other techniques for measuring electron-electron interactions (primarily for long range distance measurements)
• DNP cw mechanisms including Overhauser, Solid Effect, Thermal effect and Cross Effect
• DNP applications
• Current State of the art and Experimental Challenges

Assessment

Assessment will be via a review essay and brief summaries of six specific topics in pulse EPR and DNP.

Credit

Successful completion of the module contributes 6 credits (60 hours student effort)

Course Material

Electron nuclear double resonance
Dynamic nuclear polarization
Applications of Dynamic Nuclear Polarisation
Electron-Nuclear Interactions