5. Conclusions

An overview of gas temperature measurement using Raman spectroscopy and its potential as a diagnostic tool for improving understanding of energy transport processes during spinexchange optical pumping has been discussed. The main approaches taken to correlate lowfield NMR with Raman spectroscopy, using both orthogonal and in-line detection methods, have been compared and contrasted to relevant historical studies as well as each other to provide insight on poorly understood thermal processes present during SEOP. Future research will aim to build upon the in-line configuration, where automation of the translational stage could allow three-dimensional temperature mapping for improved characterization of these processes with greater resolution. Additionally, the demand for higher laser powers and richer Xe mixtures will likely result in thermal management becoming paramount, as the tightrope between maximizing polarization efficiency and avoiding the perilous "runaway" regime becomes narrower still.

This improved understanding of such thermal and energy transport processes should be directly translated to improving the next generation of clinical hyperpolarizers for use in producing HP noble gas for MRI studies in the lungs, which will hopefully facilitate safer, earlier, and more reliable diagnosis of a variety of serious and life-threatening diseases. Such advances will serve to streamline the diagnostic process, improving cost-effectiveness and reducing strain on medical services alongside the obvious benefit to those in society.
