Full-Wave Simulation of a Helmholtz Radiofrequency Coil for Magnetic Resonance Applications
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive diagnostic technique able to provide information about the anatomical, structural, and functional properties of different organs. A magnetic resonance (MR) scanner employs radiofrequency (RF) coils to generate a magnetic field to excite the nuclei in the sample (transmit coil) and pick up the signals emitted by the nuclei (receive coil). To avoid trial-and-error approaches and optimize the RF coil performance for a given application, accurate design and simulation processes must be performed. We describe the full-wave simulation of a Helmholtz coil for high-field MRI performed with the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method, investigating magnetic field pattern differences between loaded and unloaded conditions. Moreover, the self-inductance of the single loops constituting the Helmholtz coil was estimated, as well as the frequency splitting between loops due to inductive coupling and the sample-induced resistance. The result accuracy was verified with data acquired with a Helmholtz prototype for small phantom experiments with a 3T MR clinical scanner. Finally, the magnetic field variations and coil detuning after the insertion of the RF shield were evaluated.
Source: Technologies
Institutions: Istituto di Fisiologia Clinica, University of L'Aquila, Stelar (Italy), Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso, Superconducting and other Innovative Materials and Devices Institute, National Research Council, Fondazione Toscana Gabriele Monasterio
Language: English
Subfield: Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Imaging
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,819
OpenAlex ID: W4402197176