Quantum Technology Powers Sustainable Helium Recovery at the University of Guelph

Quantum Technology Powers Sustainable Helium Recovery at the University of Guelph in Ontario Canada Quantum Technology is proud to support the University of Guelph in its commitment to sustainability and resource efficiency with the installation of our state-of-the-art Picasso Helium Recovery System. This innovative solution not only reduces operational costs but also ensures a stable and reliable helium supply for critical research applications. Spanning the Science Complex and MacNaughton Building, the system connects six superconducting Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectrometers to a centralized collection point in the Science Complex basement. By capturing evaporated helium from the NMR magnets, purifying it, and re-liquefying it for reuse, our system significantly enhances helium management and sustainability efforts. “This innovative system enables the University to significantly reduce its helium budget,” says Dr. Vladimir Ladizhansky, professor in the Department of Physics, College of Engineering and Physical Sciences. “It is essential to keep our NMR instruments operational, which are crucial for research across the university.” Installed in May 2023 by Quantum Technology, the helium recovery system plays a vital role in maintaining the cooling needs of superconducting magnets in NMR instruments. These magnets require extremely low temperatures—minus 269°C or below—to remain in a superconducting state, with liquid helium serving as the essential refrigerant. Without a recapture system, helium used in NMR instruments would evaporate, requiring constant replenishment. Given that helium is a non-renewable and increasingly scarce resource, our technology helps institutions like the University of Guelph minimize waste and cut costs. “Helium is non-renewable, globally scarce, and increasingly costly,” explains Sameer Al-Abdul-Wahid, manager of the Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Centre. “Constant replenishment of the liquid helium in our magnets is vital to avoid quenching—a sudden loss of the magnetic field—which is both costly and potentially hazardous. By implementing a helium recovery system, we are safeguarding both resources and expenses.” During global helium shortages, suppliers often prioritize medical applications such as MRI machines, creating challenges for research institutions. With our advanced recovery system, the University now requires only about 6%-9% of its previous annual helium volume, significantly reducing new purchases and saving over $135,000 per year. “Having NMR technology is essential to the University’s research mission,” adds Dr. Ladizhansky. “Ensuring a stable helium supply helps protect our research capabilities and supports our graduate students and research capacity—our top priorities.” At Quantum Technology, we are dedicated to delivering cutting-edge solutions that enhance sustainability and operational efficiency. We are honored to collaborate with leading institutions like the University of Guelph to drive innovation in cryogenic research and helium conservation.