Ultra-low-loss fluoride glass optical fibres for the future global network. The transmission loss of silica optical fibres limits the capacity of the global internet. Fluoride glass fibres have the potential of reducing the loss by more than 10 times. This project aims to overcome two of the technological challenges of the ultra-low-loss fluoride fibre optics network: (1) commercial-scale manufacturing of improved fibres and (2) signal amplification at 2.3μm. By generating new fundamental knowle ....Ultra-low-loss fluoride glass optical fibres for the future global network. The transmission loss of silica optical fibres limits the capacity of the global internet. Fluoride glass fibres have the potential of reducing the loss by more than 10 times. This project aims to overcome two of the technological challenges of the ultra-low-loss fluoride fibre optics network: (1) commercial-scale manufacturing of improved fibres and (2) signal amplification at 2.3μm. By generating new fundamental knowledge on rare-earth transitions and glass crystal formation, expected outcomes include innovative fibre fabrication methods optimised for space manufacturing. Benefits will include enhanced internet capacity with lower energy requirements, and opportunities for sovereign capability in fluoride fibre fabrication in Australia.Read moreRead less
Towards non-thermal hydrogen-boron fusion. Laser-induced non-thermal fusion of hydrogen and boron 11 is a promising approach to reach practical sustainable energy generation. In addition, being aneutronic, this specific fusion reaction virtually avoids the deleterious environmental impact associated with high energy neutron radiation. The recent observation of this reaction under non-thermal conditions is not only exciting but begs for a better understanding of its dynamics. This industry suppor ....Towards non-thermal hydrogen-boron fusion. Laser-induced non-thermal fusion of hydrogen and boron 11 is a promising approach to reach practical sustainable energy generation. In addition, being aneutronic, this specific fusion reaction virtually avoids the deleterious environmental impact associated with high energy neutron radiation. The recent observation of this reaction under non-thermal conditions is not only exciting but begs for a better understanding of its dynamics. This industry supported proposal thus aims at establishing an experimentally-proven analysis framework underpinning the future development of a viable hydrogen-boron fusion reactor. In the long term, its successful implementation would constitute a sea change by providing a virtually limitless source of energy.Read moreRead less
Ultrashort pulse laser for ultra-hard machine tools processing. This project aims to develop an advanced high-precision ultrashort pulse laser technique for shaping and sharpening cutting tools. It expects to generate new knowledge and new technology in machine tool fabrication using an innovative approach for processing ultra-hard materials. The expected outcome is progressive machining capabilities with higher throughput, significantly reduced production time and costs, and increased tool accu ....Ultrashort pulse laser for ultra-hard machine tools processing. This project aims to develop an advanced high-precision ultrashort pulse laser technique for shaping and sharpening cutting tools. It expects to generate new knowledge and new technology in machine tool fabrication using an innovative approach for processing ultra-hard materials. The expected outcome is progressive machining capabilities with higher throughput, significantly reduced production time and costs, and increased tool accuracy and life. This should provide significant economic and safety benefits for the advanced manufacturing industry, enabling production of high-performance products across cutting-edge industries including defence, aerospace, medical tools, automotive, and clean-energy technologies.Read moreRead less