CAMM Characterization Group Explores Technological Frontiers in Berlin

The CAMM Characterization Group recently embarked on a knowledge-sharing and exploratory visit to Berlin, engaging with LTB Lasertechnik Berlin GmbH and the Geotechnical Laboratory at Technische Universität Berlin. This initiative reflects the group's commitment to strengthening CAMM’s research capabilities and staying at the forefront of cutting-edge developments in mining and geoscience.

The Berlin visit was carried out by CAMM Characterization Group members Mehdi Parian, Thorkild Maack Rasmussen, Thomas Aiglsperger, Qi Jia, Mathis Warlo, and Yang Zou, who together brought a broad range of expertise to the engagements in both research and technology settings.

Visit to LTB Lasertechnik Berlin GmbH: Advancing Optical Analysis

The first stop in Berlin brought the group to LTB Lasertechnik Berlin GmbH, a company internationally recognized for its pioneering work in laser and optical measurement systems. The visit featured an insightful presentation of LTB’s extensive product range, culminating in a demonstration of their CORALIS system – a state-of-the-art platform that combines Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) and Raman Spectroscopy.

This hybrid system exemplifies the integration of complementary analytical techniques to improve mineral and material characterization – a capability of particular interest to researchers working in mining and metallurgy. For the CAMM team, the visit sparked new discussions around how similar technologies could be applied for use in LTU’s own analytical labs.

Visit to TU Berlin Geotechnical Laboratory: Engineering with Precision

The second part of the trip took the group to the Geotechnical Laboratory at Technische Universität Berlin, home to some of Germany’s most sophisticated geomechanics testing infrastructure. The tour offered a close look at triaxial testing systems – both static and dynamic – designed for saturated and unsaturated soils. A highlight of the visit was the indoor test pit, a unique facility that enables large-scale physical modeling of test piles, providing valuable insight for applied research in geotechnical and foundation engineering.

TU Berlin’s lab is celebrated for its blend of academic rigor and practical application, aligning closely with CAMM’s goals of integrating high-quality data and experimental methods into real-world mining contexts. The visit provided the CAMM Characterization Group with valuable insights and inspiration for future collaboration opportunities and the advancement of experimental approaches within their research.