Low Cost Magnetic Resonance Imaging for the Nondestructive Evaluation of Naval Systems

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) has established itself as a leading medical diagnostic tool because of its ability to use nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) relaxation parameters as contrast mechanisms to image tissues and highlight features of diagnostic importance. Laboratory research has shown that NMR relaxation parameters are also diagnostic of integrity or damage in a variety of aerospace materials. These materials include advanced composites, adhesives and sealants, binders and propellants. NMR can detect moisture or fuels absorbed in composites, heat damage in composites, the state-of cure of adhesives and sealants, and the effects of aging in propellants. The major obstacles to MRI as a routine tool in nondestructive evaluation (NDE) have been the high cost and complexity of MRI systems. Quantum Magnetics, as a leader in the development of low-cost, easy-to-use NMR systems for a variety of applications, proposes to investigate the feasibility of a low-cost MRI system for the NDE of composite- based Navy systems. In Phase 1, laboratory NMR measurements will be used to identify the contrast mechanisms for imaging NDE. In Phase II, a prototype MRI system to investigate a Navy weapons system, chosen at the conclusion of Phase I, will be designed, fabricated and tested.