Scientists separate liquids with laser in new research

Scientists have developed a technique to separate two liquids in a mixture using a laser.

Researchers from Glasgow University came up with the method to help with the production of crystals used in computers, phones, drugs, paints, light bulbs and solar cells.

There is no way to fully control the crystallisation process, which can lead to extremely costly problems in industry.

But the new approach uses a laser to harness fluctuations in a so-called critical point and to drive the system towards a phase separated state.

Professor Klaas Wynne, who designed and developed the technique, said: “It’s a little bit like making a cup of tea, stirring in some milk, and then using a laser to suck the milk out again.

“It may seem really counterintuitive but it’s all within the laws of physics.”

Finlay Walton, who carried out the work, said: “These are the first steps towards a full understanding of the role that critical fluctuations play in crystal nucleation.

“Our aim is to gain full control over nucleation, including the type of crystal that is produced.”

The paper, titled Control Over Phase Separation And Nucleation Using A Laser-Tweezing Potential, is published in Nature Chemistry, with the research funded by a grant from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council.