Fast and simultaneous measurement of longitudinal and transverse NMR relaxation times in a single continuous wave free precession experiment

The purpose of this communication is to describe a method for rapid and simultaneous determination of longitudinal (T1) and transversel (T2) relaxation times, based on a single continuous wave free precession (CWFP) experiment which employs RF pulses with a π/2 flip angle. We analyze several examples, involving nuclei such as 1H, 31P, and 19F, where good agreement with T1 and T2 measurements obtained by traditional methods is apparent. We also compare with the more time-consuming steady-state free precession (SSFP) method of Kronenbitter and Schwenk where several experiments are needed to determine the optimum flip angle. The role of an inhomogeneous magnetic field on the observed decays and its effect upon the accuracy of relaxation times obtained by these methods is examined by comparing numerical simulations with experimental data. Possible sources of error and conditions to minimize its effects are described.