Faculty/School

Faculty of Science

School of Chemistry and Physics

Topic status

We're looking for students to study this topic.

Research centre

Centre for Materials Science

Supervisors

Professor Esa Jaatinen
Position
Professor
Division / Faculty
Faculty of Science

Overview

Since the advent of the laser in 1960, laser light has been used to identify materials through their unique molecular 'fingerprint' contained in their scatter or fluorescence. Laser induced fluorescence (LIF) is now routinely used to identify hazardous materials, detect harmful aerosols, determine the quality of food and detect biological materials in planetary exploration. While LIF is very effective it has proven to be difficult to detect materials that are concealed in containers or packaging. This project will investigate what range of materials the QUT LIF sensor system can ‘see through’ whilst still making a positive identification of the concealed agent. This will involve studying the light material interaction which will then be used to identify possible strategies to defeat the concealing container.

Research engagement

In this project you will:

  • use QUT's Eye-Safe LIF sensor system for detecting compounds.
  • set up optical experiments to test your ideas and gather data.
  • analyze the results through existing electromagnetic theories for understanding light transmission and LIF.

Research activities

In this project you will:

  • be working in QUTs Laser Sensing Laboratory and collaborating with a team consisting of academic, post-doctoral and higher degree researchers.
  • present and discuss your results at regular team meetings which will inform strategies for defeating the concealing agent.
  • prepare written reports of your results that will be incorporated into papers and other research outputs.

Outcomes

  1. Determine the type and composition of the container materials that the laser can penetrate.
  2. Identify strategies for defeating the concealing agent.

Skills and experience

This project involves a blend of theoretical and experimental activities with the proportion determined through your background and interests. Some experience in optics or physics in general is desirable but not essential. Data analysis and report writing will require familiarity with standard computing packages (eg. Word, excel, etc) and experience with MatLab would be helpful.

Start date

20 November, 2024

End date

7 February, 2025

Location

QUT Laser sensing laboratory - Gardens Point GP-M214

Additional information

Contact the supervisor for more information.

Keywords

Contact

Professor Esa Jaatinen, 31384281, e.jaatinen@qut.edu.au