A laboratory set up to work with mineral processors could help design a better artificial heart. CSIRO Minerals’ world-class laser testing laboratory is being used in a growing range of medical-related research programs, including testing blood flow through an artificial heart and the distribution of drugs ingested from devices such as nasal sprays.

In a collaborative research project with Japan’s Waseda University, laser anemometry equipment at CSIRO’s $2 million laser diagnostic laboratory in Melbourne (built mainly to assist with validating computer models of flow processes within the minerals industry) is being used to examine flows inside models of an artificial heart.

Analysis of a laser light beamed through the heart helps show where the blood is flowing smoothly, and to identify potential problem areas. Dr William Yang, research scientist at the laboratory, says testing with physical models is vital to ensure that the design of the artificial heart allows a smooth blood flow.

“We’re looking at optimising the design to help reduce turbulence and shear stress, and minimise damage to blood cells and thrombus formation, because the human heart is a very smooth, well-shaped pump,” he says. The project began about two years ago and is expected to continue for another three years. In another groundbreaking medical project, the laboratory is also being used to examine the deposition of drug particles in human airway systems – from the nasal cavity through to the lungs – to help develop medicine distribution devices such as nasal sprays. The three-year project, in partnership with Melbourne’s RMIT University, is being funded through an Australian Research Council Linkage Grant and started last year. CSIRO’s laser diagnostic laboratory is the only facility in Australia to have both laser Doppler anemometry and stereoscopic particle image velocimetry equipment.

COLLABORATION CSIRO Minerals’ laser diagnostic laboratory facilities are being used to test blood flow in an artificial heart in a collaborative project with Japan’s Waseda University

NEW The diagnostic laboratory is also being used in a project with RMIT University looking at the de-position of drug particles in human airway systems

UNIQUE CSIRO’s laser diagnostic laboratory is the only facility in Australia with both laser Doppler anemometry and stereoscopic particle image velocimetry equipment

For further information contact:
CSIRO Enquiries
Email: Solve@csiro.au      Web: www.csiro.au
Tel: 1300 363 400       International: +61 3 9545 2176

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Last Updated: August 8, 2005
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