Solid-state
NMR spectroscopy is one of the most commonly used techniques
to study the atomic-resolution structure and dynamics of various chemical,
biological, material, and pharmaceutical systems spanning multiple
forms, including crystalline, liquid crystalline, fibrous, and amorphous
states. Despite the unique advantages of solid-state NMR spectroscopy,
its poor spectral resolution and sensitivity have severely limited
the scope of this technique. Fortunately, the recent developments
in probe technology that mechanically rotate the sample fast (100
kHz and above) to obtain “solution-like” NMR spectra
of solids with higher resolution and sensitivity have opened numerous
avenues for the development of novel NMR techniques and their applications
to study a plethora of solids including globular and membrane-associated
proteins, self-assembled protein aggregates such as amyloid fibers,
RNA, viral assemblies, polymorphic pharmaceuticals, metal–organic
framework, bone materials, and inorganic materials. While the ultrafast-MAS
continues to be developed, the minute sample quantity and radio frequency
requirements, shorter recycle delays enabling fast data acquisition,
the feasibility of employing proton detection, enhancement in proton
spectral resolution and polarization transfer efficiency, and high
sensitivity per unit sample are some of the remarkable benefits of
the ultrafast-MAS technology as demonstrated by the reported studies
in the literature. Although the very low sample volume and very high
RF power could be limitations for some of the systems, the advantages
have spurred solid-state NMR investigation into increasingly complex
biological and material systems. As ultrafast-MAS NMR techniques are
increasingly used in multidisciplinary research areas, further development
of instrumentation, probes, and advanced methods are pursued in parallel
to overcome the limitations and challenges for widespread applications.
This review article is focused on providing timely comprehensive coverage
of the major developments on instrumentation, theory, techniques,
applications, limitations, and future scope of ultrafast-MAS technology.