Thanks to the introduction of ultra-fast magic angle spinning (MAS) at frequencies exceeding 100 kHz, along with new tailored pulse sequences, with the help of PANACEA an international team of scientists have overcome this obstacle. Magic angle spinning is a key NMR technique that reduces spectral interference by spinning the sample at a precise angle relative to the magnetic field. Until now, however, this technique has been less effective for paramagnetic solids, partly due to the maximum rotation speeds achievable with conventional rotors.
The scientists focused on developing new miniaturized rotors made from robust materials, capable of withstanding extreme speeds well beyond the typical 30 to 60 kHz range. These innovations, combined with optimized irradiation techniques, were tested on emblematic materials notoriously difficult to study via NMR: a luminescent terbium complex, an air-sensitive iron-based catalyst, and cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries. In each case, ultra-fast rotation allowed precise insights into the electronic and geometric structures of the samples—data previously inaccessible but highly valuable for optimizing the functional properties of these materials.
By making high-quality spectra accessible for systems once considered intractable, this development marks a major milestone in NMR research. Published in Angewandte Chemie International Edition, this breakthrough in understanding complex materials is truly groundbreaking.
Have a look at the full publication here: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/anie.202408704.
