West NMR Complex, Yokohama Campus

Observing proteins in ultra-high magnetic fields

（▲Top image）The nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrometer uses nuclear magnetic resonance phenomenon to study the structure of molecules. A strong static magnetic field of 23.5 Tesla (equal to proton resonance frequency of 1.0 GHz) is applied to the center of the cylinder by a superconducting magnet cooled to -269℃ (4K*). To avoid disturbing this magnetic field, the structures and building surrounding the instrument are made of wood and other non-magnetic materials.
*K: kelvin; SI unit of thermodynamic temperature

 

A researcher injecting a sample into NMR machine
Researcher setting a sample tube to be analyzed in the 1 GHz NMR spectrometer. The tube is then carried to the top of the instrument by a pneumatic transport tube and automatically loaded inside the magnet.

 

Tour of NMR facility at Yokohama campus
The wooden scaffolding around the 900 MHz NMR spectrometer uses the techniques of the miyadaiku (shrine and temple carpenters) and does not use nails. High school students who came to tour the facility were intrigued to see the traditional craftsmanship combined with cutting-edge instruments.