IPAS Showcases Novel Hand-Held Fluorescence Sensor at GRX25
Professor Nigel Spooner, group leader of the Prescott Environmental Luminescence Laboratory (PELL), and Dr Cornelia Wilske, a researcher in the same group, participated in the inaugural GRX25 Global Resources Innovation Expo, held on May 20-21, 2025.
GRX25 is an international, industry-led event for the METS sector, mining companies, government, research organisations, and related industries. It provides a platform to share new developments and technologies relevant to the resources sector.
At 91 booth, Professor Spooner and Dr Wilske demonstrated a hand-held fluorescence sensor developed by PELL. This portable detector is the first of its kind to enable real-time, in-field detection of fluorine-bearing minerals. Something previously only possible in the lab.
“This was the first time we presented one of our prototypes at a mining-focused expo,” said Dr Wilske. “It allowed us to speak directly with people in the industry and explore potential applications for our work.”
“Everyone who saw the demonstration ‘got’ what this new technology offers for mineral-specific sensing in the field,” said Professor Nigel Spooner.
PELL combines expertise from IPAS and the Institute for Mineral and Energy Resources. Its research includes fluorescence-based sensing, radiation monitoring, and environmental dosimetry.
The IPAS team was one of two present from 91, and the only one showcasing an operational prototype, drawing strong interest from industry attendees.