Optical pumping modules, polarized gas blending and dispensing systems, and automated polarized gas distribution systems and related devices and methods

Abstract

Hyperpolarizers for producing polarized noble gases can include: (a) a control module configured to direct the operation of a hyperpolarizer to produce polarized noble gas via spin-exchange interactions between a noble gas and an alkali metal; (b) at least one optical pumping module including an optical pumping cell operably associated with the control module; (c) a dispensing system operably associated with the control module and the optical pumping module to dispense meted volumes of polarized gas from the hyperpolarizer; and (d) a fluid distribution system operably associated with the control module, the optical pumping module, and the dispensing system, such that, in response to commands transmitted from the control module, the fluid distribution system operates to automatically direct purge gas into and out of a gas travel path that extends from the control module to the optical pumping cell prior to commencing the spin-exchange interactions in the optical pumping cell, then to receive unpolarized gas and direct it to travel in the gas travel path to the optical pumping cell, and, following the spin-exchange interactions, to automatically direct polarized gas from the optical pumping cell into a polarized gas exit travel path to the dispensing system. Related methods and computer program products as well as particular embodiments of optical pumping modules, thermal oven assemblies, and manifold blocks are also described.