The University of Western Australia (UWA) is leading an exciting project called “Reconstructive Infrared Microspectrometers,” which is making strong progress in improving Infrared (IR) spectroscopy. The aim is to create small, low-power devices that can measure infrared light, using advanced technology like metasurfaces, MEMS (micro-electromechanical systems), and computer-based methods.

Two different types of microspectrometers are being developed:

• One for longwave infrared (LWIR), designed by the University of Melbourne

• One for shortwave infrared (SWIR), designed by the University of Western Australia

The goals of the project include:

• Building and improving the prototypes

• Testing their performance at UWA

• Using computer models to analyse experimental data

• Publishing research papers on the findings

The scientific benefits of this work are expected to be significant. It will help improve the way infrared devices are built, making them smaller and more effective. The results could lead to new uses in areas like environmental monitoring, healthcare, and security.

In a recent update, researcher Jiajun Meng shared highlights from a successful visit to UWA in November 2024. Working with Associate Professor Gilberto Umana Membreno, they used UWA’s advanced spectroradiometer to test a mid-infrared device. Although the tests were complex and time-consuming, the results were very encouraging and showed the device works well.

Following this, a paper abstract was accepted for the CLEO conference in May 2025, and a full research paper is now in progress. Jiajun Meng said that access to UWA’s specialised equipment and expert team was crucial to the success of the experiments. He thanked A/Prof Umana Membreno and his team for their support and insights, which will be very helpful for the next stage of the project.