An NMR inspection apparatus comprises a system for providing a dissolved,
hyperpolarized sample and an NMR analysis system connected to the
hyperpolarizing system are disclosed. The NMR analysis system includes a
magnet for generating a substantially homogeneous magnetic field in a
working volume suitable for carrying out NMR and a number of RF magnetic
field generators located in the working volume. A non-electrically
conducting conduit passes adjacent the RF magnetic field generators and
is coupled to the hyperpolarizing system so as to convey a hyperpolarized
sample past each RF magnetic field generator in sequence. A sample
control system controls movement of a sample through the conduit. An NMR
signal acquisition system controls the RF magnetic field generators to
generate RF magnetic fields in accordance with a predetermined pulse
sequence and detects the resulting NMR signals from the portions of the
sample exposed to the RF magnetic fields.