Peter Ireland

Dr. Peter Ireland is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Engineering at the University of Newcastle, specializing in Chemical Engineering and Materials Science. He holds a PhD in Applied Physics from the University of Sydney (2002) and a BSc (Physics Hons.) from the same institution (1997). His research focuses on electrostatics, triboelectrification, foams/flotation, and liquid marbles, with applications in minerals processing, environmental engineering, and pharmaceuticals.

Education:

• PhD (Applied Physics), University of Sydney, 2002
• BSc (Physics Hons.), University of Sydney, 1997
• Graduate Certificate in Data Science, University of New South Wales

Research Interests: His work spans fundamental and applied physics in particle-liquid interactions, including triboelectric separation, foam dynamics, and electrostatic formation of liquid marbles. He explores how these phenomena can advance water-efficient mineral processing and eco-efficient technologies.

Grants & Awards:

• ARC Future Fellowship (2012-2015)
• ARC Discovery Projects (e.g., 'Triboelectric Separation' 2006-2010)
• 2009 Young Scientist Award (European Working Party on Static Electricity)
• 2010 Young Author Award (International Mineral Processing Congress)

Teaching & Supervision: He coordinates courses in Coal/Mineral Processing and Energy Transfer Technologies. Supervised over six PhD students focusing on electrostatic beneficiation, liquid marble formation, and flotation hydrodynamics.

Labs & Collaborations: Active in the Priority Research Centre for Advanced Particle Processing and the ARC Centre of Excellence for Eco-Efficient Beneficiation of Minerals. Collaborates with industry partners like FLSmidth and AMIRA International.