Laser Diagnostics and Chemical Sensing
Our Laser Diagnostics and Chemical Sensing research group uses state-of-the-art technologies to create innovative sensing systems based on modern laser technology and electromagnetic waves.

We are particularly focused on:
- developing and applying diagnostic tools
- applying and validating engineering models
- real-time in situ chemical and particle detection
- developing solid-state solar thermal simulators
- engineering ‘lab on a chip’ portable monitoring and diagnostic systems.
Our Laser Diagnostics and Chemical Sensing group aims to understand matter’s interaction with radiation and light and apply this knowledge to specific sensing applications and engineering devices to solve real-life problems. This includes in relation to:
- non-intrusive temperature imaging in solar-thermal energy
- non-isothermal multiphase flows
- reactive flows
- combustion
- plasma-based technologies
- mineral processing
- medical and animal welfare diagnosis
- environmental pollutant monitoring.
Research impact
Our Laser Diagnostics and Chemical Sensing group’s research has numerous real-world applications. This includes:
- developing new technology to improve processes across different industries
- enabling clean energy production
- providing cost-competitive, easy-to-use portable sensing technologies for diagnosis and environmental protection.
Strong industry links
Our research has broad societal impact, with applications across multiple industries and national research priority areas. These include:
- health
- environmental management
- eco-friendly industrial processes
- mining and energy
- infrastructure
- security
- defence.
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Our researchers
We have expertise across a wide range of areas. Many of our researchers are available to assist with research project supervision for Master of Philosophy and Doctor of Philosophy students.
Research team Expertise Associate Professor Zeyad Alwahabi Dr Abel Santos Dr Philip Kwong Dr Philip Van Eyk Professor Gus Nathan Professor Bassam Dally Associate Professor Paul Medwell Dr Cris Birzer -
Collaborations
We collaborate with various industry and government organisations, including:
- CSIRO
- ETH Zurich (Switzerland)
- Monash University
- RMIT University
- San Diego State University (USA)
- Sandia National Laboratories, Albuquerque (USA)
- Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Baix Penedès (Spain)
- University of Lund (Sweden)
- University of New South Wales
- University of Sydney
- University of Wollongong
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Consulting services
We advise on, and lead, projects relating to:
- process innovation
- new technology development.
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Contact us
To enquire about consulting or working with us on a research project, please contact:
Higher degrees by research
Whether you intend to work in research or industry, a higher degree by research can give you a competitive edge throughout your career. Find out more about studying a Master of Philosophy or Doctor of Philosophy.
News
Centre for Energy Technology PhD Scholarship
The ARENA funded research project, Laser Diagnostics in Non-isothermal Multiphase Flows, focuses on the development and application of non-intrusive optical diagnostics in complex multi-phase flows. The project aims for simultaneous real-time imaging of particles and gas temperature.