Explaining the dark matter small-scale crisis with spectral distortions. This project aims to explain the nature of dark matter and provide a solution to the so-called small-scale crisis. The "cold dark matter" model provides an excellent fit to observations of the universe on the largest scales. Yet, it appears to be in conflict with current understanding of how small structures such as dwarf galaxies form. This project expects to determine the distortions to the blackbody spectrum of the cosmi ....Explaining the dark matter small-scale crisis with spectral distortions. This project aims to explain the nature of dark matter and provide a solution to the so-called small-scale crisis. The "cold dark matter" model provides an excellent fit to observations of the universe on the largest scales. Yet, it appears to be in conflict with current understanding of how small structures such as dwarf galaxies form. This project expects to determine the distortions to the blackbody spectrum of the cosmic microwave background (CMB) photons due to different solutions to this small-scale crisis. The expected outcome is to open an observational pathway to test these solutions with the future CMB observations. This project will provide significant contribution to both particle physics and astrophysics/astronomy, and will advance Australia’s knowledge base in fundamental science beyond the immediate goal of clarifying small-scale problems of cold dark matter.Read moreRead less
High productivity of hybrid plasma electrocatalytic fertiliser production. Non-thermal plasma-driven electrocatalytic production of nitrogen fertilisers. The project aims to develop scalable technology for ambient production of fertilisers using renewable energy, air, water, and captured CO2. This project is anticipated to generate new knowledge in plasma catalysis and electrochemical coupling through designing and fine-tuning catalyst-loaded 3D scaffolds. Expected outcomes of this project inclu ....High productivity of hybrid plasma electrocatalytic fertiliser production. Non-thermal plasma-driven electrocatalytic production of nitrogen fertilisers. The project aims to develop scalable technology for ambient production of fertilisers using renewable energy, air, water, and captured CO2. This project is anticipated to generate new knowledge in plasma catalysis and electrochemical coupling through designing and fine-tuning catalyst-loaded 3D scaffolds. Expected outcomes of this project include increasing the capacity to adopt low-cost and decentralised methods for renewable energy utilisation. This should provide substantial technological capacity that can be applied to other sectors of Australia's developing hydrogen economy and expand the use of renewable energy Power-to-X for zero-emissions energy vectors.Read moreRead less