$1 million laser lab opens at Adelaide

Friday, 30 March 2001

The reseach team which developed the flame for the Sydney 2000 Olympic torch and cauldron has today opened a new, state-of-the-art Laser Laboratory at Adelaide University.

The $1 million laboratory will assist the engineering team in its ongoing efforts to develop technology which reduces greenhouse gas emissions from combustion.

Adelaide University's Turbulence Energy and Combustion (TEC) group received national and international recognition for its work on the fuel and combustion system for the Olympic torch, community cauldron and main stadium cauldron.

Based in two University departments-Chemical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering-the group's work focuses on the development and application of new technology for the control of turbulence, and to reduce the environmental impact of combustion.

The TEC group has a strong track record in attracting commercial research contracts, and has patented some of its biggest developments.

Lasers play a pivotal role in this research, because they can be used to "look into" flames and accurately measure their properties and processes.

The new TEC Laser Diagnostics Laboratory is comprised of state-of-the-art laser equipment, purchased with the aid of funds obtained through the Australian Research Council (ARC).

This makes the research group one of the most highly equipped in the nation, and competitive internationally.

The Vice President, Asia/Pacific for the Nasdaq Stock Market, Mr Patrick Sutch, will give a free public lecture at Adelaide University on Thursday, March 15.

Mr Sutch will discuss the benefits to Australian companies of listing on Nasdaq, its unique trading characteristics, and Nasdaq and the Biotech sector. The lecture will be followed by a Q&A session.

WHERE: Rennie Lecture Theatre, Johnson Building, Adelaide University (off Victoria Drive). WHEN: Thursday March 15, 2.30pm.

Mr Sutch's visit to Adelaide has been organised by Adelaide University's Science & Technology Commercialisation (STC) programs.

Dr Graham Gurr, the Director of STC Programs, says Adelaide companies have much to learn from Mr Sutch's extensive experience in the banking and stock market sectors.

The public lecture also falls in the lead-up to the start of the University's Master of Science & Technology Commercialisation course for 2001, which is now open for enrolment.

Please note: There is no charge for attendance to the lecture. However, space is limited, so reservations should be made with Megan O'Brien on 8303 5729 - megan.obrien@adelaide.edu.au

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