A Flexible 32-Channel Array for 3He Human Lung Imaging at 1.5T

Martin H. Deppe¹, Juan Parra-Robles¹, Titus Lanz², Jim M. Wild¹

This work presents a flexible 32-channel array coil for imaging of hyperpolarized ³He at 1.5 T, designed as an insert into an existing birdcage transmit coil of excellent B₁ homogeneity. The array consists of an anterior and a posterior half, containing 16 channels each. Nearest neighbours are decoupled by concentric shields. Functionality of the array is demonstrated by human lung images at different acceleration factors. Residual coupling to the transmit coil, which is currently not detuned during the reception phase, remains, and will be addressed in future by detuning the birdcage.