Magnetic resonance-based viscometers and methods

摘要

This invention relates generally to magnetic resonance (MR)-based methods and kits for measuring the viscosity of liquid samples.

主权项

1. A method for determining viscosity of a liquid, wherein the liquid comprises a solvent, the method comprising:
(i) exposing a sample comprising the liquid and two or more non-settling particles, each of the particles having a positive magnetic susceptibility and a magnetic moment of at least about 6 ×10−16 emu per particle, to an applied magnetic field, wherein the applied magnetic field is of a strength sufficient to induce the particles to aggregate; and (ii) measuring a change in a nuclear relaxation property of the solvent caused by aggregation of the particles in the applied magnetic field; wherein a change in the nuclear relaxation property relates to the viscosity of the liquid.