Physics
The Department of Physics has divisions belonging to both the Science Faculty and the Faculty of Engineering (LTH). The following are affiliated to LTH, where about 170 lecturers and researchers are engaged.
Atomic Physics
Scientists at Atomic Physics are pursuing research on the properties of atoms and molecules, mainly using advanced laser techniques. Lasers with outputs of the order of terawatts (1012 or a million million watts) are used to study how material and light interact at extremely high laser intensities. Areas of application can be found in medicine, IT and the environment. For example, methods are being developed for the early diagnosis and treatment of cancer, new methods for optical data processing are being investigated, and air pollution is being measured with laser-radar techniques.
Keywords: atoms, molecules, lasers, high-power lasers, spectroscopy, environmental measurement techniques, medical laser applications, IT, information technology
Combustion Physics
In the area of Combustion Physics, methods of measurement; mainly laser diagnostics, are being developed and used to determine the quality of and conditions (e.g. temperature, concentrations) in various combustion processes. Mathematical and chemical models of combustion processes are also being developed and used. The common goal is low fuel consumption and reduced emissions from engines, gas turbines, boilers, power plants, etc.
Keywords: chemical kinetics, soot formation phenomena
Mathematical Physics
Mathematical Physics applies modern theories from mathematics and physics to physical, technical, medical and economic problems. Important areas of research include the theoretical understanding of the structure of the atomic nucleus and of nanometre systems, which will be the basis for the electronics and quantum computers of the future. Other areas of application are in economics (the flow of capital) and in medicine (e.g. the dynamics of the heart), as well as thermal analysis of the ground for heat storage and spent nuclear fuel storage.
Keywords: supersymmetry, non-linear systems and chaos, theoretical elementary particle physics, theoretical nuclear physics, nuclear fuel handling, heat storage in the ground, energy storage, quantum computers, quantum mechanical engineering, Bose-Einstein condensate, nanometre quantum systems
Nuclear Physics
Nuclear Physics is the study of the structure and properties of the atomic nucleus. At LTH research is directed towards ion-beam-based measurements, including the PIXE (proton-induced X-ray emission) method. Development is taking place in methods of measurement and optimization of ion optics. Applications can be found in geology, medicine, the environment and material modification. Research is also being carried out on aerosols (ultra-fine, airborne particles) in the atmosphere that affect the climate and our health.
Keywords: focused ion beams, PIXE, aerosols, climate and the environment, radon in homes, natural radioactivity
Solid State Physics
Solid state physics and semiconducting materials are central areas in Solid State Physics. Researchers can make semiconductor structures by controlling individual atoms, and can study their physical and electronic properties. Matters of current interest include quantum physical phenomena in nanostructures, and the development of nano-electronics and biosensors. The main areas of application are nano-electronics, nano-optics and biomedicine.
Keywords: epitaxy, nanowires, nanotechnology, nano-electronics, biosensors