C-START, the Centre for Spray Technology, Application, Research and Training based at University of Queensland's Gatton campus, is making its Phase Doppler Particle Analyser (PDPA) available to industry clients through the Consulting and Research division of UniQuest, UQ's main commercialisation company.

The lasers are being used to measure particle size and velocity as well as assess flow-fields for various applications including agriculture, forestry, mosquito control, stack emissions, mining, fuel combustion, chemicals and pharmaceuticals.

"Any industry that needs to measure flow fields, droplet and solid particle size and velocity, such as mining, paints, food drying, pharmaceuticals, automotive, fuel combustion to name a few, will find the more accurate data we can now produce extremely helpful for understanding and improving product performance," C-START director Dr Andrew Hewitt said.

The PDPA uses dual laser beams and optics to determine the size and velocity of spherical particles, unlike traditional measurement techniques with intrusive probes that interfere with flow.

The results are said to be significantly more accurate.

The Doppler's capabilities have enhanced the range of sampling and modelling services C-START can provide to industry and government, including companies developing new products related to spray technology.

The new equipment complements C-START's wind tunnel, which is also unique within Australia.

This facility includes state-of-the-art photo analysis equipment for analysing spray droplet size and spread.

"Achieving strong product performance whilst minimising environmental impact is a major priority for most businesses these days," Dr Hewitt said.

"Each laser system uses a different approach to measurement and measures different things.

"The equipment we have makes it possible for our research to help industry clients meet their regulatory obligations as well as their business objectives."