We present a theoretical framework for the use of continuously phase modula
ted radio-frequency pulses for homonuclear decoupling in solid-state NMR. W
ithin this framework, we have derived new families of decoupling sequences
using numerical optimization. One of these sequences is tested experimental
ly on an ordinary organic solid, and its performance is compared with stand
ard multiple-pulse sequences. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights res
erved.