-
Prof. Vladimir Vladimir Lobaskin (School of Physics, University College Dublin)07/07/2026, 08:30
Bionano interactions sit at the heart of some of the most promising technologies of the
Go to contribution page
coming decade, including targeted drug delivery, mRNA vaccines, biosensors, theranostic
agents, and engineered interfaces for regenerative medicine. They are, at the same time,
the key to understanding the toxicity of nanomaterials. In both roles, what matters is not the
pristine nanomaterial but the... -
André DeGoede (North West University)07/07/2026, 09:30
This paper presents the design and development of a GPU-based wideband spectrometer for radio astronomy. The system aims to provide a cost-effective alternative to FPGA-based spectrometers by utilizing commercially available graphics processing units (GPUs) for high-speed signal processing. Implemented using an NVIDIA RTX 4090 GPU, the spectrometer achieves real-time Fast Fourier Transform...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Garreth Kemp (University of Johannesburg)07/07/2026, 09:30Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsOral Presentation
Conserved charges of the $AdS_{5} ×S^{5}$ spacetime are encoded into irreducible representations (irreps) of $U(N)$ super Yang-Mills gauge theory through AdS/CFT, and through Schur-Weyl duality, into symmetric polynomials evaluated on irreps of the symmetric group $S_{n}$. A conjecture exists regarding the maximum number of conserved charges an observer needs to measure in order to distinguish...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Phala Wesley Masoga (University of Limpopo)07/07/2026, 09:30Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
This qualitative case study examined Grade 10 learners’ conceptual understanding of electric circuit concepts through the use of PhET simulations. The study was guided by Stepans’ Conceptual Change Model as the theoretical framework for analysing learners’ conceptual development. The data was collected from fourteen purposively sampled Grade 10 Physical Sciences learners from a school in the...
Go to contribution page -
Phodiso Maroeshe (School of Physics and Institute for Collider Particle Physics, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Wits 2050, South Africa)07/07/2026, 09:30Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
Searches for new resonances at hadron colliders are typically optimized for benchmark models and high transverse momentum final states in order to suppress large Standard Model backgrounds. However, potential signals of new physics may appear in less explored regions of phase space where traditional analyses may have reduced sensitivity. This project investigates the use weak supervision in...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Alain Daniel Shekomba (Mineral Processing and Technology Research Centre, Department of Metallurgy, School of Mining, Metallurgy and Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South África)07/07/2026, 09:30Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
Abstract
Copper and the associated cobalt minerals found in the oxidised seam of the african copper belt precede their massif sulfphide reefs. The transition zone between the oxidised and the sulphide layers, still rich in Cu about 5 % and Co some times running more than 3 % is made of a mixed complex making a metallurgical operational challenge to optimally acid or alkaline dissolve Cu and...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Miles Kidson (University of Cape Town)07/07/2026, 09:30Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
Cosmic radiation, composed of Galactic Cosmic Rays, Solar Energetic Particles, and their associated secondary particles, represents a recognized radiation risk to space missions, satellites, and air travel. Secondary neutrons, with characteristic spectral features in the MeV and 100 MeV range [1,2], are produced by cosmic ray interactions with atmospheric and spacecraft materials [3]. A...
Go to contribution page -
Tshimangadzo M. Matamba (South African National Space Agency (SANSA))07/07/2026, 09:30
The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) receivers are used to study the ionospheric scintillation over Africa during the ascending phase of solar cycle 25 for the years 2020 to 2025. The amplitude (S4) scintillation is characterized for receivers located in South Africa, Zambia, Kenya, Uganda and Nigeria. The statistics of S4 indicate that in...
Go to contribution page -
Ms Noxolo Felicia Vilakazi (University of Pécs)07/07/2026, 09:30
Single-photon sources (SPSs) based on spontaneous parametric down-conversion (SPDC) are inherently probabilistic, producing a usable photon with a probability of about $0.25$. This is too low for scalable quantum technologies, especially when optical losses and detector inefficiencies are included. Spatial multiplexing offers a solution by combining many identical heralded sources in parallel....
Go to contribution page -
Shanyn Hart (University of Cape Town and iThemba LABS)07/07/2026, 09:30
The development of advanced radiation imaging systems for environmental monitoring requires improved sensitivity, rapid response, and reliable source localisation in complex measurement scenarios. In this work, a two-stage Compton camera is investigated with particular emphasis on detector performance, timing characteristics, and geometrical optimisation.
The system is based on compact 14 ×...
Go to contribution page -
Kutloano Nkojoana (University of the Witwatersrand)07/07/2026, 09:50Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsOral Presentation
We investigate the configurational temperature estimator as a diagnostic tool for Monte Carlo and Langevin simulations of the three-dimensional XY model with an imaginary chemical potential. This estimator depends only on the field configurations. It provides a stringent internal consistency check for numerical sampling algorithms. We perform simulations using both real Langevin dynamics and...
Go to contribution page -
David Buckley (SAAO/UCT)07/07/2026, 09:50
I will review plans for global transient and detection networks of the future. The BRICS+ astronomy flagship programme, entitled the BRICS Intelligent Telescope and Data Network (BITDN), aims to harness existing and future facilities within BRICS+ countries for automated transient observations, both their detection and followup. Likewise a smaller Africa initiative, the African Integrated...
Go to contribution page -
Nobathembu Faleni (Walter Sisulu Univesity)07/07/2026, 09:50Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
The adsorption process influenced by polyelectrolytes at soft interfaces plays a crucial role in various electrochemical, sensing, and separation technologies. Nonetheless, the intricate interfacial energetics at the microscopic level of conducting polymer-semiconductor nanocomposites are still not well comprehended. This investigation delves into the interfacial energetics and charge-driven...
Go to contribution page -
Golekamang Thaganyana (North-West University)07/07/2026, 09:50
This study presents observations of large- and medium-scale poleward travelling ionospheric disturbances (TIDs) originating from the geomagnetic equator over the African-European sector during the 15-19 July 2012 geomagnetic storm. The observation of poleward TIDs were made using the Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) total electron content (TEC) data to obtain the two dimensional...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Ndivhuwo Nthai (University of Johannesburg)07/07/2026, 09:50
Platinum group minerals concentrators in South Africa increasingly operate under highly variable feed conditions, resulting from the simultaneous processing of upper ground 2 ores, Platreef ores, and materials from tailings storage facilities. These feed sources differ significantly in mineralogy, particle size distribution, and flotation response. At the same time, declining ore grades and...
Go to contribution page -
Patrick Kinsey (University of Pretoria)07/07/2026, 09:50
Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) spectroscopy is a promising technology which can enable the real-time, label-free analysis of biomolecular interactions with high sensitivity. In plant pathology and agriculture, SPR measurements will allow the rapid identification of biomarkers related to disease or stress and can significantly improve the outcomes for plant health and crop yields by allowing...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Mukesh Kumar07/07/2026, 09:50Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
We study the radiative decay $S \to W^{+}W^{-}\gamma$, motivated by the multi-lepton anomalies at the LHC and by the emergence of a statistically significant narrow scalar resonance at $152 \pm 1$~GeV in the $\gamma\gamma$, $Z\gamma$, and $W^{+}W^{-}$ channels in association with leptons, missing transverse momentum, and $(b)$-jets. This motivates a search for a corresponding excess in the...
Go to contribution page -
Deon Marais (South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa) SOC Limited)07/07/2026, 09:50Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
The fission reaction in the core of a Nuclear Research Reactor (NRR) produces free neutrons with energies extending from MeV to meV. In principle, neutrons of specific energy groups can be selected using configurable beam-conditioning filters. The feasibility of such a concept depends on the extent to which the mixed neutron and gamma source external of the core can be transformed into beams...
Go to contribution page -
530. Understanding DC Circuits: Student Misconceptions and Implications for Teaching in South AfricaMoreen Coetzee (Akademia)07/07/2026, 09:50Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
Conceptual understanding of simple DC electric circuits remains a persistent challenge in introductory physics education, particularly at university level. Despite formal instruction, students continue to demonstrate fundamental misconceptions regarding current, potential difference, and the behavior of series and parallel circuits.
This study investigates the conceptual understanding of DC...
Go to contribution page -
Ms Naomi Dikeledi Mokhine (North-West University (Mafikeng))07/07/2026, 10:10Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
An increasing number of fundamental physics investigations require low-background materials for their construction. These investigations require materials exhibiting an unparalleled degree of radiopurity, such as copper, lead, and germanium, for dark matter and neutrino detectors. The concentration of radioactive contaminants is the primary measure for experiments investigating rare natural...
Go to contribution page -
Akash Singh (University of the Witwatersrand)07/07/2026, 10:10Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsOral Presentation
At finite baryon chemical potential and low temperatures, QCD is expected to exhibit a rich phase structure characterized by the formation of quark bilinear and multi-quark condensates. However, the strongly coupled nature of QCD in this regime, together with the sign problem in lattice simulations at finite density, renders first-principles analyses extremely challenging. While effective...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Hendrik Jacobus van Heerden (University of the Free State)07/07/2026, 10:10
This work presents the design and implementation of TelServer, a modular observatory control system developed to integrate telescope and dome subsystems within a unified communication framework. The system interfaces with a DFM Telescope Control System (TCS) via RS232, while dome motion and shutter operations are controlled through programmable logic controllers (PLCs). A socket-based...
Go to contribution page -
Derek Fish (University of Zululand)07/07/2026, 10:10Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
Kahoot is a popular learning platform with a quiz-show format which is used for a quick review of student knowledge or to provide some variety in how material is presented. It is one of the most popular worldwide with over 70 million users per month. Many papers have been written on the effectiveness on using Kahoot in the classroom but few focussed specifically on Physics. In addition most...
Go to contribution page -
Nkanyiso Linda Ndlovu (Discipline of Physics, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X54001, Durban 4000, South Africa)07/07/2026, 10:10Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
Rare-earth (RE) doped spinel ferrite nanoparticles (RE-MFe2O4, where M = Co, Ni, Zn) provide a versatile platform for tailoring structural, magnetic, and surface properties at the nanoscale. In this work, we present a systematic investigation of the structure–magnetism–function relationships in RE-doped spinel ferrites synthesized via controlled wet-chemical routes, to develop multifunctional...
Go to contribution page -
Prof. Zama Katamzi-Joseph07/07/2026, 10:10
Plasma bubbles are pockets of abrupt significant depletions in background plasma variations. These depletions are ubiquitous in the nighttime F-region and topside ionosphere at equatorial and low latitudes. There are sometimes ionospheric irregularities of various scales within the bubbles, which may cause ionospheric scintillation. Scintillation can have a substantial impact on radio signals...
Go to contribution page -
Thabo James Lepota (University of the Witwatersrand)07/07/2026, 10:10Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
Dark photons ($Z_D$) with direct vector ($g_V$) and axial ($g_A$) couplings to Standard Model (SM) fermions provide a well-motivated portal to physics beyond the SM. In contrast to kinetic mixing scenarios, which are strongly constrained, models with direct fermion couplings can remain consistent with current experimental limits. The top quark, as the heaviest SM fermion, offers a sensitive...
Go to contribution page -
Kelsey Everts (University of the Witwatersrand)07/07/2026, 10:10
Living tissues absorb and scatter light resulting in low resolution images, poor information transfer and making deep-tissue optical imaging and sensing challenging. Recently, however, topological light has gained interest due to its claimed resilience against external perturbations. Here we generate skyrmions as our optical topology by combining beams with different orbital angular momentum...
Go to contribution page -
Prof. Azwinndini Muronga (Nelson Mandela University)07/07/2026, 11:00Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsOral Presentation
Matter under extreme conditions, ranging from the quark–gluon plasma created in relativistic heavy-ion collisions to the dense interiors of collapsing stars and neutron stars, exhibits strongly interacting, non-linear dynamics far from equilibrium. Despite vast differences in scale, these systems share a common theoretical description rooted in relativistic fluid dynamics, where conservation...
Go to contribution page -
Edmund Kyazze (North-West University)07/07/2026, 11:00
We investigate the dynamical impact of a time-dependent curvature–scalar coupling function $S(t)$ within a modified scalar–tensor framework. By analysing the generalized acceleration equation, we show that, in contrast to standard $\Lambda$CDM, where pressureless matter contributes exclusively to deceleration, modifications induced by $S(t)$ alter the gravitational response, leading to a...
Go to contribution page -
Bako Nyikun AUDU (University of the Western Cape)07/07/2026, 11:00Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
Education remains a critical driver of social transformation and it remain central to South Africa's socio-economic development agenda, particularly within historically marginalized communities. Persistent underperformance in Mathematics and Physical Sciences—especially in under-resourced regions such as the Cape Flats—continues to limit learners’ access to science, technology, engineering,...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Ram Nandan Kumar (University of the Witwatersrand)07/07/2026, 11:00
Optical topologies in the form of Skyrmions have predominantly been generated using integer orbital angular momentum (OAM) modes, resulting in integer-valued topological numbers that remain invariant and robust during propagation through complex media. Here, we demonstrate the first realization of fractional Skyrmions by structuring light as a vectorial superposition of non-integer OAM modes....
Go to contribution page -
Ronel Ronella Randela (University Of Venda)07/07/2026, 11:00
Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) are a type of photovoltaic device that uses light-absorbing dyes to convert sunlight into electricity, offering a low-cost, environmentally friendly alternative to conventional silicon- and ruthenium-based solar cells. This study investigates the co-sensitization potential of natural dyes extracted from Symphytum officinale and Bidens pilosa for application...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Sifiso Nxumalo (School of Chemistry and Physics, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P/Bag X54001, Durban 4000, South Africa)07/07/2026, 11:00Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
Nickel substituted magnesium ferrite nanoparticles (NixMg1−xFe2O4; x = 0, 0.5, 1) were synthesised via the glycol thermal method and coated with chitosan through 50 h ball milling. Structural, morphological, and magnetic properties were characterised using XRD, FTIR, HRTEM, UV Vis, Mössbauer spectroscopy, and VSM. XRD confirmed single-phase spinel structures, with crystallite sizes increasing...
Go to contribution page -
Karabo Mosala (University of the Witwatersrand)07/07/2026, 11:00Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
Future electron-proton ($e^- p$) colliders offer a clean and sensitive environment to probe Axion-Like Particle (ALP) interactions with the top quark via single anti-top production in association with an ALP, $e^- p \to \bar{t}~a_x~\nu_e$. We investigate the precision with which the ALP-top quark coupling $C_{a\bar{t}}/f_{a}$ and the ALP-photon coupling $C_{a\gamma}/f_{a}$ can be constrained,...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Yusuf Ahijjo Musa (Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto)07/07/2026, 11:00Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
Abstract: This study presents a systematic radiological assessment of primordial radionuclides in soil samples collected from Tambuwal, Sokoto State, Nigeria. Utilizing high-resolution gamma-ray spectrometry, the activity concentrations of ²²⁶Ra, ²³²Th, and ⁴⁰K were quantified to evaluate the potential internal and external radiation exposure to the local population. The measured activity...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Thato Maja (North-West University)07/07/2026, 11:00
The extreme geomagnetic storm in May 2024 was a landmark space-weather event, characterised by G5-level conditions, solar wind speeds exceeding 900 km/s, and a Dst reaching -406 nT. This presentation provides a comprehensive analysis of the global response of the thermosphere and ionosphere to this historic forcing. Utilising data from the Global-scale Observations of the Limb and Disk (GOLD)...
Go to contribution page -
Magdeline Mohlao07/07/2026, 11:20Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsOral Presentation
This work focuses on the development of a theoretical and computational framework designed to evaluate magnetised shock wave dynamics in extreme, high-energy environments. The mathematical foundation utilises magnetohydrodynamics, which couples the conservation laws with Maxwell’s equations of electromagnetism for a conducting fluid. To accurately model the system's evolution, the framework...
Go to contribution page -
Lufuno Takalani (University of Venda)07/07/2026, 11:20Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
Practical laboratory work is fundamental to effective teaching and learning in Physical Sciences, yet many secondary school teachers in the Vhembe District of Limpopo, South Africa, show limited engagement in conducting experiments. This study investigates the extent and causes of this challenge within resource-constrained school environments. A concurrent mixed-methods approach was adopted,...
Go to contribution page -
Jaydon Durow07/07/2026, 11:20
The late time evolution of large scale structure (LSS) in our Universe is heavily influenced by early Universe physics. But typically we limit our tests to the $\Lambda$CDM model, which limits how we can examine what effect early time conditions have on the Universe and its evolution. Cosmological simulations, like the Simba-C simulation, are useful tools for modeling galaxy formation and...
Go to contribution page -
phelokazi fodo07/07/2026, 11:20
Abstract
Nighttime medium-scale traveling ionospheric disturbances (MSTIDs) are wavelike plasma structures in the ionospheric F-region that can affect radio communication and space weather forecasting. These disturbances appear as dark bands in airglow images obtained from all-sky imagers (ASIs). This study investigates characteristics of MSTIDs over two conjugate ASI stations, i.e.,...
Go to contribution page -
Ms Thandi Mazibuko (University of the Free State)07/07/2026, 11:20Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
White light-emitting diodes (WLEDs) have become ubiquitous in modern society because they last longer and use less energy than their predecessors. There are two popular approaches to achieving white light in LEDs: combining a blue LED with a yellow phosphor ($YAG:Ce³⁺$) or using a UV-LED with blue, green, and red (RGB) phosphors. Unfortunately, the blue LED and $YAG:Ce³⁺$ combination exhibits...
Go to contribution page -
Thapelo Gerry Leboho (University of Witwatersrand)07/07/2026, 11:20Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
We investigate the sensitivity to charged Higgs interactions in single anti-top production at the proposed \textit{Large Hadron Electron Collider} (LHeC) via the process $e^- p \to \bar{t}\,\nu_e$. Within the real $Y=0$ scalar triplet model ($\Delta$SM), the charged Higgs $H^+$ contributes as a t-channel mediator, inducing characteristic deviations from the Standard Model expectation. This...
Go to contribution page -
Kelsey Everts (University of the Witwatersrand)07/07/2026, 11:20
Structuring light’s space, time and polarization within a single pulse has only recently become feasible, enabling the generation of complex spatiotemporal vector beams (STVBs) ideal for high-density information transport. Unfortunately, all current STVB generation methods rely on bulky, complex 4f pulse shapers prohibiting on-chip applications. Here we theoretically propose and experimentally...
Go to contribution page -
Precious Mabidi (University of Venda)07/07/2026, 11:20
Water quality monitoring is critical for sustainable water resource management, particularly in water-stressed regions such as South Africa. However, the availability, accessibility, and consistency of water quality remain a major challenge, which may be contaminated by waste from different sources like mines, industries and agricultural activities. Some areas in South Africa face serious...
Go to contribution page -
Liteboho Ntsohi (University of the Witwatersrand)07/07/2026, 11:20Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
This study evaluates the potential of major elemental compositions obtained from X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry (11 XRF majors: $SiO_{2}$, $K_2 O$, $Na_2 O$, $TiO_2$, $Fe_2 O_3$, $Al_2 O_3$, $P_2 O_5$, $CaO$, $MgO$, $NiO$, $MnO$) for characterizing uranium ore samples from the Mrima Hill carbonatite complex in Kenya, with the aim of assessing their suitability as nuclear forensic...
Go to contribution page -
Masego Mothapo07/07/2026, 11:40Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
1Masego E Mothapo, 1Fhulufhelo Nemangwele, 2Le Roux Rikus ,3Jacques Bezuidenhout
Go to contribution page
1Faculty of Science, Engineering and Agriculture, Department of Physics, University of Venda, Thohoyandou, 0950
2Faculty of Military Science, Department of Military Technology, Stellenbosch University, Saldanha, 7395
3Faculty of Military Science, Department of Physics, Stellenbosch University, Saldanha, 7395... -
Joyful Elma Mdhluli (IAU Office of Astronomy for Development)07/07/2026, 11:40Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
Traditional development approaches are increasingly struggling to respond to the complexity and urgency of contemporary global challenges, including widening inequality, climate instability, and the demand for inclusive and sustainable growth. Many existing development frameworks remain siloed, with limited integration of science, technology, and innovation, constraining their overall...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Matome Maloba (University of South Africa (UNISA))07/07/2026, 11:40Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
In this study, vanadium dioxide (VO2) films were deposited on silicon substrates by reactive pulsed laser deposition. Post deposition, the films were implanted with 80-keV Ag+-ions to fluences ranging from 0.1x1016 to 5.0x1016 ions/cm2. The effects of Ag+ ion-implantation on the structural, morphological, and optical properties of the films were investigated using various characterization...
Go to contribution page -
Serai Israel MOSALA (Nelson Mandela University)07/07/2026, 11:40Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsOral Presentation
This study investigates the steady-state thermal and magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) behaviour of electrically conducting nanofluids in a Couette flow configuration between two infinite parallel plates. The upper plate moves at a constant velocity under partial slip conditions, while convective heat exchange is imposed at the upper boundary and a fixed temperature is maintained at the lower plate....
Go to contribution page -
Ms Sibahle Mbatha (University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN);South African National Space Agency (SANSA))07/07/2026, 11:40
Geomagnetically Induced Currents (GIC) occur when rapid variations happen in the Earth’s magnetic field during geomagnetic storms due to space weather events. Such variations induce electric fields in the ground, which in turn drive unwanted currents in long conductors. As a way of assessing the magnitude of the GIC expected, empirical model is developed. This study presents the magnetic field...
Go to contribution page -
Olebogeng Tlhapane (Centre for Space Research, North-West University)07/07/2026, 11:40
We examine interacting vacuum energy (IVE) models involving energy transfer between vacuum energy and cold dark matter, such as: $(i)\ Q = \iota HV$, $(ii)\ Q = \xi H\rho_c$, and $(iii)\ Q=3\eta H\frac{V\rho_c}{\rho_c+V}$ with the aim of addressing the cosmological tensions: $H_0$ and $\sigma_8$. To assess the cosmological viability of these IVE models, we constrain their dynamics through a...
Go to contribution page -
Nikisha Baboolal (University of the Witwatersrand)07/07/2026, 11:40
The field generated by three-wave mixing in a second-order nonlinear crystal, under suitable approximations, can be described by the product of the two input fields. By controlling the amplitude and phase of the input fields, a single nonlinear crystal can be used to perform many different transformations on the generated field. Here we use difference frequency generation, an effect of...
Go to contribution page -
David Tinarwo (University of Venda), Mr Shandukani Muronga (University of Venda)07/07/2026, 11:40
The transition to decentralised, low-carbon energy systems in South Africa requires solutions that integrate energy access with productive use, education, and local economic development, particularly in rural contexts. This study presents a physics-based feasibility assessment of a hybrid photovoltaic (PV)–biogas–battery mini-grid proposed for the Tiyani Just Energy Transition Living Lab...
Go to contribution page -
Edward Nkadimeng (University of the Witwatersrand)07/07/2026, 11:40Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
We investigate the sensitivity to anomalous Higgs couplings through di-Higgs production at the proposed Large Hadron Muon Collider (LH$\mu$C), which collides 500~GeV (1~TeV) muons with 7~TeV protons at center-of-mass energies of $\sqrt{s} \approx 3.74$ (5.3)~TeV. Using the charged-current process $\mu^{+}p \rightarrow hhj\nu_{\mu}$, we probe the sensitivity of the Standard Model Higgs...
Go to contribution page -
Vukosi Chauke (University of Limpopo)07/07/2026, 12:00Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
The design of multicomponent hydrogen storage alloys requires a systematic understanding of configurational stability and structure–property relationships. In this study, a cluster expansion (CE) approach combined with density functional theory (DFT) calculations was employed to investigate the Ti–V–Mn alloy system within the AB₂-type Laves phase framework. The CE model, trained on a diverse...
Go to contribution page -
Nikita Azevedo07/07/2026, 12:00
Artificial neural networks are well suited tools for solving complex, multi-parameter problems and have been realized using light, termed optical neural networks (ONNs) or deep diffractive neural networks (D2NN). Their conception has been motivated by the decreased energy demands of optical systems, where nature itself is able to take on some of the computational burden. These systems have...
Go to contribution page -
Abdool Sattar Cassim (Unioversity of Johannesburg), Timothy Brooks (University of Johannesburg)07/07/2026, 12:00
Long Period Grating (LPG) fiber optic sensors are widely used for environmental and chemical sensing due to their high sensitivity to refractive index changes; however, their deployment in high-radiation environments requires a thorough understanding of radiation–matter interactions within the sensor structure. In this study, a simulation-based investigation is conducted using Geant4 to...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Ishaan Bhatt (University of Michigan and South African National Space Agency)07/07/2026, 12:00
The ionospheric response to geomagnetic storms is an important space weather phenomenon caused by solar events such as coronal mass ejections (CMEs). The ionosphere is important for long distance high frequency (HF) communication. The scientific understanding of the ionospheric response during extreme geomagnetic storm is essential in mitigating the impacts in an operational space weather...
Go to contribution page -
Marcel van der Westhuizen (North-West University)07/07/2026, 12:00
We present Kosmulator IDE, a modular extension of the Kosmulator code [1] designed to constrain interacting dark energy (IDE) models within a fast and flexible Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) environment. Kosmulator is a vectorised, Python-based inference tool developed for rapid testing of cosmological models at the background level, offering significant speed improvements compared to...
Go to contribution page -
Ishiyaku Mbela Abubakar (University of Cape Town South Africa)07/07/2026, 12:00Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
Visual perception cannot be fully explained by a single model, as it involves both physical models of light and cognitive processes. Light is described through geometrical optics, wave theory, and particle theory, each suited to different contexts; for instance, geometrical optics explains reflection but not diffraction, which requires a wave model. Likewise, phenomena such as the Moon...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Mukesh Kumar07/07/2026, 12:00Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
We investigate the sensitivity of future electron-proton colliders to anomalous $t \bar{t} \gamma$ interactions throught the photo-production process $\gamma p \to t \bar{t}$ where the photon is radiated from the incoming electron beam, and the neutral-current process $e^{-} p \to e^{-} t \bar{t}$ where the photon is exchanged between one of the top-quarks and the incident electron beam. We...
Go to contribution page -
Ms Liteboho Ntsohi (University of the Witwatersrand)07/07/2026, 12:00Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
This study investigates rare earth elements (REE) and associated soil contamination around Mrima Hills, Kenya, through integration of Post-Archean Australian Shale (PAAS)-normalized REE patterns and the geo-accumulation index (Igeo). Soil samples were collected and analyzed using inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP–MS) with analytical precision maintained within ±5% and detection...
Go to contribution page -
Tendani Oliver Munyai (Nelson Mandela University)07/07/2026, 12:00Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsOral Presentation
We examined the particle ratios of multiple meson and baryon species at central rapidity and an impact parameter of b = 5 in Pb+Pb high-energy heavy-ion collisions. The collisions were simulated using the most recent version of the Ultra-relativistic Quantum Molecular Dynamics model (UrQMD-3.4), which, unlike its predecessors, incorporates charmed particles such as D, J/ψ, Xc, and others....
Go to contribution page -
clarence Mabaso07/07/2026, 12:20Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
Organic–inorganic halide perovskites have emerged as promising materials for next-generation photovoltaics due to their tunable band gaps and excellent charge transport properties. Lead-based perovskites such as CH3NH3PbI3 have achieved power conversion efficiencies exceeding 25%, making them strong competitors to conventional silicon solar cells. However, concerns over lead toxicity have...
Go to contribution page -
Timothy Brooks (University of Johannesburg)07/07/2026, 12:20
Accurate radiation dosimetry in high-energy and high-radiation environments remains a critical challenge for applications in particle physics, nuclear engineering, and space systems. This study investigates the performance of germanium-doped fiber optic sensors as robust and sensitive platforms for radiation monitoring under extreme conditions. In this study, a germanium-doped FBG sensor was...
Go to contribution page -
Keletso Monareng (University of Limpopo)07/07/2026, 12:20Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
Keletso Monareng1, Petros Ntoahae1, and Rapela Maphanga2,3
Go to contribution page
1Department of Physics, University of Limpopo, Private Bag X 1106, Sovenga, 0727, Polokwane, South Africa
2Renewable and Sustainable Energy Research Centre, Sol Plaatje University, Private Bag X 5008, Kimberly, 8300, South Africa
3 National Institute for Theoretical and Computational Sciences, NITheCS, Gauteng, 2000, South... -
Buyisiwe Sondezi (University of Johannesburg)07/07/2026, 12:20Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
While it is possible to simulate most of the undergraduate experiments in the physical sciences, it remains critical for modules at the undergraduate level to have a hands-on experimental component. At the institution of higher learning, students acquire assistance from lecturers, lab managers, and laboratory demonstrators for this component. This involvement of laboratory demonstrators is...
Go to contribution page -
Moorane Emily Makwela (student)07/07/2026, 12:20
We investigate whether the stellar mass–spin relation of galaxies depends on environment, and whether any such dependence is direct or mediated through galaxy morphology, using the Simba cosmological simulations . We construct a well-defined galaxy sample at redshift zero and measure the relation between stellar mass and specific angular momentum, quantifying its slope, normalisation, and...
Go to contribution page -
Ernest van Dyk07/07/2026, 13:40
The global deployment of photovoltaic (PV) technology has accelerated dramatically over the past decade, establishing solar energy as one of the fastest-growing sources of electricity worldwide. South Africa has mirrored this trend, driven by both utility-scale developments and widespread adoption across the commercial, industrial and residential sectors. By early 2026, the country's...
Go to contribution page -
Linda Strubbe (Strubbe Educational Consulting), Tabitha Alango (University of South Africa)07/07/2026, 14:40Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
In the vision to increase the number of African astronomers, physicists, and related STEM professionals, strengthening undergraduate astronomy and physics education is a crucial (and often overlooked) piece. BLUEshift Africa is a project designed to address this need. BLUEshift is made possible by a Venture Grant from the American Institute of Physics, through the American Astronomical...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Masixole Yvonne Lugongolo (CSIR)07/07/2026, 14:40
Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) offers a highly sensitive and label‑free optical technique for monitoring biomolecular interactions by detecting changes in the refractive‑index at the metal–dielectric interface. In this study, we investigated the application of custom-built SPR for the direct detection of HIV through the virus’s envelope antigen gp120 in complex clinical samples. To achieve...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Mbhasobhi Manqele (University of KwaZulu-Natal)07/07/2026, 14:40
The expansion of Continuously Operating Reference Station (CORS) networks in South Africa is limited by the high cost of geodetic-grade infrastructure, resulting in sparse coverage from networks such as TrigNet and reduced capability for centimetre-level RTK positioning and ionospheric monitoring in many regions. This study presents the design and evaluation of a low-cost, low-power GNSS RTK...
Go to contribution page -
NTOKOZO CEBEKHULU07/07/2026, 14:40Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
Ntokozo G. Cebekhulua, Ceboliyazakha L. Ndlangamandlaa, Prince S.Mkwaea, Donald D. Hilea,b, Sipho E. Mavudlac, Siphamandla C. Masikanec
Go to contribution page
aDepartment of Physics, University of Zululand, Private Bag X1001, KwaDlangezwa ZA3886, South Africa
bDepartment of Physics, Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi, Nigeria
cDepartment of Chemistry, University of Zululand, Private Bag X1001,... -
Xola Ndaliso (University of the Witwatersrand)07/07/2026, 14:40
Galaxy clusters are laboratories for studying the interplay between the hot intra-cluster medium (ICM) and the galaxies embedded within it, offering key insights into the environmental processes driving galaxy evolution. We use X-ray and \hi spectral line observations of the \textit{z}~$\sim$~0.042 Abell 3408 galaxy cluster to investigate the influence of the hot X-ray emitting intra-cluster...
Go to contribution page -
Geoff Beck (University of the Witwatersrand)07/07/2026, 14:40Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsOral Presentation
The experimental demonstration of Bell inequality violation was a landmark moment for research in quantum foundations. Transitioning the field from metaphysical speculation into the empirical realm. However, the consequences of these violations by quantum mechanics are not fully understood, despite simplistic presentations to the contrary. In this talk we will discuss the assumptions...
Go to contribution page -
Thembi Hope Vilane (NWU-JINR)07/07/2026, 14:40Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
The work focuses on the "double-hit" experimental approach in the registration and analysis
Go to contribution page
of ternary decay events. The double-hit registration approach means that two fragments, with
an open angle between them 5 0 or less, were detected in the same PIN diode during one
registration gate of 200 ns. The series of experiments dedicated to investigation of 242 Pu (ɣ, f)
reaction... -
Roja Rimer07/07/2026, 14:40Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
The search for dark matter motivates searches for new particles beyond the Standard Model (SM), such as the dark photon $\gamma_d$. The work described in this presentation focuses on the search for massless $\gamma_d$ via a hypothetical Higgs boson decay $H\rightarrow Z+\gamma_d$, with $Z\rightarrow l^+l^-$. The non-interacting nature of the dark photon would give arise to a missing...
Go to contribution page -
Mr ZOTHILE DLAMINI (University of KwaZulu Natal)07/07/2026, 15:00
The total electron content (TEC) refers to the total amount of free electrons along the ray path of a 1 square meter cross-section spanning from the ground through the ionosphere to a satellite, and is measured in TECU, where 1 TECU is 1016 electrons/m2. TEC enhancements are observed by a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver in Zambia on 24, 27 Feb, and 1 Mar. Three additional GPS...
Go to contribution page -
Mikayla Chaplin07/07/2026, 15:00Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
Measurement of angular correlations in $\gamma-\gamma$ cascades using coincidence detection and Monte Carlo simulation
M. Chaplin, T. Hutton, T. Leadbeater
Metrological and Applied Sciences University Research Unit, Department of Physics,
University of Cape Town, South Africa.Coincidence counting techniques are widely used to determine correlated $\gamma$-ray emissions from nuclear...
Go to contribution page -
Craig Smith (University of the Western Cape)07/07/2026, 15:00
Neutral atomic hydrogen (HI) in galaxies is typically only directly detected out to a galactocentric radius imposed by the sensitivity of current radio observations, rather than the true physical extent of the HI disk. As a result, the low surface-brightness outskirts of HI disks - where environmental effects may be most pronounced - remain largely unexplored, despite being key to...
Go to contribution page -
Chad Leukes (University of Cape Town)07/07/2026, 15:00Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
Learning astronomy presents various challenges that students must overcome to transition from novice to expert. Extensive research has attempted to address these challenges, although most prior studies focussed on documenting students’ incorrect reasoning outcomes (‘misconceptions’). Few studies sought to understand the fundamental nature of student reasoning about astronomical phenomena. The...
Go to contribution page -
Arnab Laha (University of the Witwatersrand)07/07/2026, 15:00Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
The Standard Model (SM) encapsulates our best understanding of fundamental particles and their interactions. While it is remarkably successful in describing experimental data, it fails to account for several fundamental observations, including the nature of dark matter. This has motivated extensive exploration of physics beyond the SM, particularly models involving a hidden or Dark Sector (DS)...
Go to contribution page -
Wagner Tavares Buono (University of the Witwatersrand)07/07/2026, 15:00
In this work we propose a technique that is able to measure the intensity dependent refractive index $n_2$ and nonlinear absorption $\beta$ in a single measurement and improved accuracy. Contrary to previous techniques, we are able to improve precision via manipulation of the optical system post interaction with the sample. We achieve this by imprinting on the beam a specific intensity profile...
Go to contribution page -
Moritz Braun (UNISA)07/07/2026, 15:00Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsOral Presentation
We use two dimensional basis functions based on a shifted and scaled wavelet scaling sym8 function
Go to contribution page
\begin{equation}
f_i(x)=\phi\left( x/h+x_{\rm max} /h -i\right)/\sqrt{h}\,.
\end{equation}
Here $h=x_{\rm max}/N$, where $x_{\rm max}$ is the distance from the origin to he boundary of the square shaped domain. In addition we modify these functions to satisfy periodic boundary... -
sipho Chauke (Council for Scientific and Industrial research (CSIR))07/07/2026, 15:00
Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) is an optical phenomenon arising from the excitation of collective electron oscillations (surface plasmons) at a metal-dielectric interface, typically induced by p-polarized light under conditions of total internal reflection. The resonance condition, defined by the resonance angle (θres), is highly sensitive to variations in the local refractive index near the...
Go to contribution page -
Edward Lee (University of the Free State)07/07/2026, 15:00Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
Thin films have been used and are used in many technological applications, as they are more practical than bulk powders. The unique properties of thin films enable them to be fabricated and integrated into more complex devices while preserving the bulk material's original properties. The preservation of bulk material properties has enabled transparent conductive oxide (TCO) thin films to...
Go to contribution page -
Obiageli Ezenwachukwu (University of South Africa (UNISA))07/07/2026, 15:20Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsOral Presentation
We use three dimensional basis functions based on a shifted and scaled Daubechies wavelet scaling function[1]
Go to contribution page
\begin{equation}
f_i(x)=\phi\left( x/h+x_{\rm max} /h -i\right)/\sqrt{h}\,.
\end{equation}
From the equation above, $h=x_{\rm max}/N$, $h$ is also the distance between the scaling functions, and $N$ is the number of intervals from the origin to $x_{\rm max}$. However, the... -
SIYABONGA CHILIZA (UKZN, SA Airforce, SAIP, SACNASP)07/07/2026, 15:20
The mesosphere–lower thermosphere (MLT) is a dynamically complex region where gravity wave breaking, atmospheric tides and planetary waves drive the large-scale circulation, and where tidal motions play a fundamental role in modulating wind variability and vertical coupling processes. Understanding the long-term behaviour of mesospheric wind velocity and tidal amplitude is essential for...
Go to contribution page -
Chrispin Kabuya (iYunivesithi Walter Sisulu)07/07/2026, 15:20
The accurate interpretation of sensor data in prosthetic systems is challenged by nonlinear signal transformations, environmental coupling, and temporal drift within the prosthetic socket environment. Sensor outputs derived from embedded thermistors are influenced by
Go to contribution page
dynamic interactions between physiological heat generation, mechanical loading, and ambient conditions, resulting in... -
Bralyne Vanessa Kamga Matoukam (University of The Witwatersrand)07/07/2026, 15:20Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
The ATLAS experiment at the CERN Large Hadron Collider (LHC) records and processes large amounts of data from proton-proton collisions. With the upcoming High-Luminosity LHC (HL-LHC), the data volume is expected to increase by more than an order of magnitude, posing new challenges for storage, data throughput, and analysis scalability.
Go to contribution page
To meet this challenge, ATLAS is transitioning to... -
Mr Karabo Khosa (North-West university-Centre of Space Research)07/07/2026, 15:20
Active galactic nuclei (AGN) are powered by accretion onto supermassive black holes, making them some of the brightest sources in the Universe. We combine MIGHTEE radio data with WISE mid-infrared and HSC-SSP optical data in the COSMOS and XMM-LSS fields to investigate the radio properties of AGN populations. We found 3,239 and 5,394 radio detected sources in COSMOS and XMM-LSS respectively....
Go to contribution page -
P. Z. Ngcobo (University of Zululand)07/07/2026, 15:20Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
D. V. Kamanin1, Yu. V. Pyatkov2,1, A. N. Solodov1, P. Z. Ngcobo3, V. E. Zhuchko1, T. H. Vilane 1,4, Z. I. Goryainova1, O. V. Strekalovsky3, E. A. Kuznetsova1, A.O. Zhukova1, Yu. M. Sereda 1, B.A. Le 1
1 Joint Institute for Nuclear...
Go to contribution page -
Nuraan Majiet (University of Cape Town)07/07/2026, 15:20Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
In physics, it is well understood that many theoretical terms like force, field and spin have an everyday meaning that differs from the physics disciplinary meaning. Many studies in Physics Education Research have explored how this difference can affect students’ ability to learn physics. This talk argues that there exists a similar shift in meaning in the experimental physics context....
Go to contribution page -
Precious Makhubela (Student)07/07/2026, 15:20Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
Core-shell architectures have emerged as an effective strategy to enhance structural stability, regulate oxygen redox, and improve lithium-ion transport in lithium-rich layered oxide cathodes. This is due to the ability of the shell to act as a protective barrier that suppresses oxygen loss and mitigates surface degradation, while simultaneously facilitating lithium diffusion and stabilising...
Go to contribution page -
Vuyani Sifunda (University of limpopo)07/07/2026, 15:40Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
Tremendous effort has been invested in the fabrication of nanomaterials for gas detection of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as acetone, methanol, ethanol, benzene, and toluene. These VOCs act as important medical biomarkers for various diseases, such as diabetes, lung cancer, asthma, and halitosis. In this study, pristine and Ag-loaded CuO/Fe2O3 p-n heterostructures were synthesized...
Go to contribution page -
Mabunda Hlayiseka (University Of Venda)07/07/2026, 15:40
South Africa’s growing energy demand, coupled with persistent supply constraints and continued reliance on fossil fuels, has intensified the need for accurate solar resource assessment to support renewable energy deployment. In this study, empirical models were developed and evaluated to estimate the components of hourly global solar radiation on both horizontal and inclined...
Go to contribution page -
Lwandile Gwebushe (Rhodes University)07/07/2026, 15:40
We present MeerKAT HI observations of galaxies in the core of the Shapley Supercluster, one of the most massive structures in the local Universe. Our sample of HI-detected galaxies in A3558 and SC1329 allows us to examine how cold-gas content and star formation evolve in an extreme, high-density environment. Galaxies in the SSC-core lie systematically below field HI scaling relations, showing...
Go to contribution page -
Tjatji Tjebane (Necsa)07/07/2026, 15:40Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
Hermetically sealed sample holders are widely used in X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses when handling sensitive materials. In the case of radioactive samples, these holders provide effective containment to prevent contamination, while for hygroscopic materials, they offer protection against interaction with atmospheric moisture. Despite these advantages, the materials used to manufacture such...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Lebogang Thobakgale (CSIR Biophotonics Photonics Centre Council for Scientific and Industrial Research)07/07/2026, 15:40
Substandard and falsified (SF) medications pose a growing public health and regulatory challenge in South Africa, with serious implications for patient safety and healthcare systems. Continuous development of rapid screening methods is essential to detect SF products effectively. This study evaluates the stability of aspirin tablets using Raman spectroscopy combined with partial least squares...
Go to contribution page -
Anele Ncube (University of Johannesburg)07/07/2026, 15:40Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsOral Presentation
Hyperbolic spaces serve multiple purposes in the frontiers of physics at different regimes: on the large scales, when considering the global topology of the universe, and on small scales, when considering compactified extra dimensions in some Beyond the Standard Model scenarios. These spaces are non-trivial, and determining their eigenmodes (i.e. the solutions to the Helmholtz equation on...
Go to contribution page -
Mayhew Steyn (University of Cape Town)07/07/2026, 15:40Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
Smartphones are equipped with sensors that measure various physical phenomena (such as a magnetometer to measure magnetic fields) along with onboard computational power capable of processing the data from these measurements and displaying them in a human-readable way. These features make smartphones a candidate for use as experimental tools in educational physics laboratories, which has...
Go to contribution page -
sipho Chauke (Council for Scientific and Industrial research (CSIR))07/07/2026, 17:20
Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) provides a label-free optical platform for the detection of biomolecular interactions. While highly sensitive, its accuracy can be compromised by non-specific binding, which introduces background interference and obscures target-specific signals, particularly on probe-functionalized surfaces. To address this challenge, the present study systematically...
Go to contribution page -
Cannimhambho Chewe07/07/2026, 17:20
This study seeks to utilise both computational density functional theory (DFT) and micro-flotation experiments to understand the interaction of xanthates and dithiocarbamate with galena minerals under acidic and neutral conditions. The relaxed structural lattice parameters were recorded as a = b = c = 5.935 Å. The galena (100) surface was determined as the most stable surface and possessed a...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Tsholo Talane (UNISA, TUT)07/07/2026, 17:20
Portable electronics, electric cars, and large-scale energy systems are becoming increasingly popular, creating a need to move towards energy storage technologies that can deliver both high energy and power densities quickly and reliably. Supercapacitors (SCs) have emerged as promising energy storage devices due to their fast charge/discharge capabilities, long cycling life, and environmental...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Edwin Mapasha, Owen Alfreds07/07/2026, 17:20
The structural stability and mechanical properties of Janus monolayer transition metal carbidesulfides MSC (M=Zr, Hf, Ti) in the 1H phase are systematically investigated using first-principles calculations. Cohesive energy calculations reveal that the 1H phase is consistently more stable than the 1T phase across all three compounds, with energy differences ranging from 0.50 to 0.67 eV/atom,...
Go to contribution page -
Musa Maluleka (University of Venda)07/07/2026, 17:20
Radiotherapy remains a cornerstone in the treatment of brain tumors; however, its
Go to contribution page
effectiveness can be limited by intrinsic cellular resistance driven by TP53 mutations and
altered DNA repair capacity. MDM2 inhibitors such as AMG232 are designed to restore TP53
pathway activity, potentially enhancing radiosensitivity. Understanding how AMG232
influences DNA damage responses, cell-cycle... -
Dr Malesela Walter Makgoba (University of Limpopo)07/07/2026, 17:20
The adsorption of CH2O on the surface of GaN monolayer doped with Ru and Rh has been investigated using density functional theory. The Negative adsorption energies of -2.096 and -1.629 eV were attained for the adsorption of CH2O on GaN monolayer doped with Ru and Rh respectively, implying energetically stable systems. The more negative the adsorption energy, the more favourable and stronger...
Go to contribution page -
Lerato Raganya07/07/2026, 17:20
Accurate prediction of phase stability and mechanical compatibility is essential for developing metastable beta-type titanium alloys for orthopaedic applications. Current alloy design methods including molybdenum equivalence (Moeq), electron-to-atom ratio (e/a), bond order–metal d-orbital energy (Bo–Md), and the cluster-plus-glue-atom model, when used independently, often produce inconsistent...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Kaveer Nagessar (University of Pretoria)07/07/2026, 17:20
Bipolar Junction Transistors (BJTs) are fundamental semiconductor components utilized extensively for switching, amplification, and signal control in modern electronics. However, their electrical performance in high-radiation environments, such as space and nuclear facilities, is often compromised by degradation.
A 2N2907A pnp silicon BJT was subjected to electron irradiation under a...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Kgomotso Lefenya (University of Witwatersrand - Wits)07/07/2026, 17:20
Prostate cancer is the second most prevalent malignancy that affects men globally and one of the curative approaches requires high-precision radiotherapy techniques. One of these recent and advanced techniques is volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT). This ensures accurate dose delivery whilst minimizing toxicity to the organs in proximity to the prostate, such as the rectum and bladder....
Go to contribution page -
Segoarihle Ntobeng (University of Limpopo)07/07/2026, 17:20
Cobaltite (CoAsS) possesses a structure similar to that of pyrite, which facilitates the development of interatomic potentials for atomistic simulations based on previously derived pyrite models. This study employed the atomistic molecular dynamics simulation to investigate the effect of temperature on the structural and dynamic properties of bulk cobaltite. The developed model predicted a...
Go to contribution page -
Mofuti Mehlape (University of Limpopo)07/07/2026, 17:20
Pyrite-type nanomaterials have attracted considerable attention due to their potential applications in energy materials, electrocatalysis, and photovoltaics. As Earth-abundant systems, their enhanced structural and dynamical properties arise from a high surface-to-volume ratio, necessitating a detailed understanding of their behaviour under varying conditions. In this study, molecular dynamics...
Go to contribution page -
Timothy Brooks (University of Johannesburg), Abdool Sattar Cassim (University of Johannesburg)07/07/2026, 17:20
Within industries such as nuclear reactors and aerospace, working environments have extreme temperatures ranging from cryogenic operations below -$100\,^{\circ}\mathrm{C}$ to high heat at $300\,^{\circ}\mathrm{C}$. Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensors with polyimide coating offer a promising solution due to their compact size, multiplexing capability, and resistance to signal degradation in high...
Go to contribution page -
Kyalo N Kiteme07/07/2026, 17:20
In this work, a synthesized metal oxide Li3.5La 1.5 ZrO 6 (LLZO), a solid-state electrolyte, is characterized and studied to unveil its properties as an alternative to the liquid electrolyte currently used in lithium-ion batteries.
Go to contribution page
Lithium-ion batteries suffer from the formation of dendrites (swelling) and overheating while being charged/ discharged, sometimes resulting in thermal... -
Ntuthuzelo Nqeketo (University of the Western Cape)07/07/2026, 17:20
The proposed Paarl African Underground Laboratory (PAUL) project has
Go to contribution page
made significant progress toward the planning and design of an underground laboratory to be constructed during the upgrade of the Huguenot Road Tunnel near Paarl in the Western Cape, South Africa. While underground locations reduce cosmic-ray backgrounds, it is also important to understand radiation coming from the... -
Mr Khulekani Manqele (University of Zululand)07/07/2026, 17:20
Silicon carbide (SiC) has been proposed as a primary coating layer within tri-structured isotropic (TRISO) fuel particles due to its unique properties. While TRISO particles successfully retained most FPs, the release of key radioactive elements such as strontium (Sr) remains a challenge, prompting numerous studies to understand their diffusion mechanisms in SiC. This study investigates the...
Go to contribution page -
Roy Mlambo (University of Venda)07/07/2026, 17:20
Hydrogen is widely regarded as a promising green fuel due to its zero direct carbon emissions during use. Hydrogen has the highest energy content per unit mass, about 120 MJ/kg, but its volumetric energy density remains very low because of its low density at ambient conditions. This limitation makes hydrogen storage a major challenge for both stationary and onboard applications. This challenge...
Go to contribution page -
Carol Tlhaboloa (University of Limpopo)07/07/2026, 17:20
This study investigated the interaction between pyrite (FeS₂) mineral surfaces and xanthate and dithiocarbamate (DTC) collectors through a combination of computational Density functional theory (DFT) and microflotation experiments. Although pyrite is commonly regarded as a gangue mineral, its strong flotation tendency under conditions similar to valuable sulphides such as galena, chalcopyrite,...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Tshepiso Mogajana (University of Johannesburg)07/07/2026, 17:20
The performance of greenhouse cultivation hinges on precise control of its internal microclimate, particularly under urban and variable climatic conditions. In this study, we used computational fluid dynamics to model the environmental conditions in a double-roof sawtooth greenhouse located at the University of Johannesburg. The temperature, pressure and humidity distributions in the...
Go to contribution page -
Marisana Masha (Cape Peninsula University of Technology)07/07/2026, 17:20
The accelerating global transition toward clean energy demands sustainable pathways for hydrogen (H 2 ) production. Thermochemical conversion of lignocellulosic biomass through pyrolysis and reforming offers a promising, carbon-neutral route, yet reactor design remains a critical bottleneck limiting yield efficiency. This study presents a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) investigation into...
Go to contribution page -
bornwise mugwena (university of limpopo)07/07/2026, 17:20
Lithium-air batteries are a promising solution for future energy storage due to their high energy density and environmental friendliness. However, their performance is limited by slow reaction kinetics at the cathode, particularly the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Noble metals such as palladium (Pd), iridium (Ir), and osmium (Os) can enhance these...
Go to contribution page -
Ms Nontobeko Nondumiso Zavala (University of Limpopo)07/07/2026, 17:20
The milling of the violarite (NiFe2S4) mineral exposes different surface and as such there are few or one surface that dominates during the crushing. The thermodynamic stable surface is less reactive and is of importance for mineral extraction. Computational method can determine the most stable surface and the preferred cleavage either through reconstruction or perfect surface cleavage. The...
Go to contribution page -
Dieketseng Glara Tsotetsi (Department of Physics, University of South Africa, Johannesburg, 1710, South Africa.)07/07/2026, 17:20
In this study, optimizing caffeine concentrations (2%, 4%, 6%, and 8%) in MAPbI3 using a graphite electrode under acidic conditions, analysing both electrocatalytic (EC) and photoelectrocatalytic (PEC) processes was investigated. The catalyst made from Graphite and MAPbI3 with 2% caffeine shows superior performance compared to the other catalysts, particularly in the dynamic electrocatalytic...
Go to contribution page -
Kelsey Everts (University of the Witwatersrand)07/07/2026, 17:20
Systematic studies of light’s propagation through media with spatially varying refractive indices are key to advances in imaging biological tissues, opaque materials and communication through foggy conditions. Laboratory studies typically employ white paint, emulsions or tissue-mimicking phantoms which are difficult to identically reproduce, simulate and often have complex time-consuming...
Go to contribution page -
Ms ANDI ISNI PUJIRANA (NELSON MANDELA UNIVERSITY)07/07/2026, 17:20
Abstract
Go to contribution page
Homoepitaxial undoped n-type GaAs layers were grown by metal-organic vapour phase epitaxy (MOVPE) on semi-insulating and n⁺ GaAs substrates at growth temperatures ranging from 550 °C to 675 °C. Growth was carried out using an unconventional precursor combination of triethylgallium (TEGa) and tertiarybutylarsine (TBAs), in contrast to the more commonly employed trimethylgallium and... -
Ms RAMOKONE CHRISTINA MALINDISA (University of the Free State)07/07/2026, 17:20
Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is widely used in our daily lives as an alternative fuel for cooking and various industries. The LPG contains a mixture of propane and butane. On the other hand, they possess flammable and explosive properties. The December 2022 incident in Boksburg, South Africa, involving an LPG tanker poses a significant threat to infrastructure, public safety, and the...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Mbongeni Mncube (University of Kwazulu-Natal)07/07/2026, 17:20
Triggered false alarms are one of the biggest problems for smoke detection systems. Cloud movement in the sky, cloud reflections on hills, cars, animals eating, and trees moving about in a forest can easily trigger a false alarm. This poses a critical issue because forest wildfires are constantly on the rise. This affects the global economy substantially and forest ecosystem, therefore...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Keamogetswe Motiang (Northwest university)07/07/2026, 17:20
Zinc sulphide (ZnS) has been widely utilized in solar cells as a buffer layer or light scatterers due to its excellent chemical and physical. Zinc sulphide nanoparticles (NPs) were characterised using UV-Vis spectroscopy to determine their energy band gap. The absorption spectra were obtained in the wavelength range 300 – 800 nm. The absorption spectra showed maximum absorption just below 300...
Go to contribution page -
Vuako Maluleke (University of Venda, iThemba LABS)07/07/2026, 17:20
Automated gamma-ray spectrometry is a modern analytical technique used for radionuclide identification and quantification in environmental, industrial, and nuclear applications. This study presents the development and optimization of an automated gamma-ray spectrometry system using a high-resolution detector and advanced software for real-time spectral acquisition and analysis. Automated...
Go to contribution page -
Mpho Gololo (University of Johannesburg)07/07/2026, 17:20
The High-Luminosity Large Hadron Collider (HL-LHC) upgrade places stringent performance and reliability requirements on the ATLAS Tile Calorimeter (TileCal) readout circuits. A crucial component of this upgrade is the Tile Pre-Processor (TilePPr), a part of the off-detector electronics in charge of data processing, control, and communication. As part of the Phase-II upgrade, crucial TilePPr...
Go to contribution page -
Motlatso Phooko (University of Venda)07/07/2026, 17:20
Refractory high-entropy alloys such as NbMoTaW are promising materials for hydrogen storage applications because of their strong crystal structure and stability, inspiring trust in their potential for energy solutions. In this study, density functional theory (DFT) calculations were performed using the CASTEP module in Materials Studio to investigate hydrogen behavior within NbMoTaW. Hydrogen...
Go to contribution page -
Mudimeli Vusani Mangalani (University Of Venda)07/07/2026, 17:20
Refractory high-entropy alloys (RHEAs) are strong, stable materials useful for hydrogen energy applications. In this study, the interface between RHEAs and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) was investigated using Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations. The calculations were performed in Materials Studio using the CASTEP module, with the GGA-PBE functional. Interface models were constructed by...
Go to contribution page -
Tshifhiwa Ranwaha (University Of Venda)07/07/2026, 17:20
The performance of reinforced refractory high-entropy alloys (RHEAs) depends on the stability of the interface between the alloy and the reinforcement. In this study, Density Functional Theory (DFT) using the CASTEP module in Materials Studio was used to investigate the interface between NbMoTaW and titanium diboride (TiB₂), emphasizing the strong bonding that ensures durability. Interface...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Johannes Hermanus Spies (University of the Free State)07/07/2026, 17:20
The use of lenses and specular reflecting surfaces (mirrors) to direct light in optical instruments is commonplace. However, light may also be directed within a closed hollow volume having diffuse internal reflecting surfaces and a small exit hole – if the volume is round, this is called an integrating sphere. This is a critical component in the homogenisation of light and used when...
Go to contribution page -
Thato Manyama (University of Limpopo)07/07/2026, 17:20
Impurities such as iron (Fe), copper (Cu) and manganese (Mn) are often present in sphalerite (ZnS) mineral. These impurities significantly influence the properties of ZnS. This study investigated the effect of Cu, Fe and Mn content on the structural properties of the bulk and surface structures of ZnS using density functional theory with dispersion correction and Hubbard U (DFT-D+U). This...
Go to contribution page -
Modjadji Rebecca Letsoalo (University of Witwatersrand)07/07/2026, 17:20
The advancement of efficient and economical solar technology continues to be a key challenge in sustainable energy research. Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) present a feasible alternative to traditional solar technologies, however their effectiveness is predominantly limited by the characteristics of photoanode materials. This study experimentally investigated Fe/Cu/Co-doped Zn2SnO4...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Bradley Nemutudi (University of Limpopo)07/07/2026, 17:20
The interactions of organic collectors with mineral surfaces are the major factors that determines the floatability behaviour of minerals during flotation process. This study employed the computational density functional theory with dispersion correction (DFT-D3) method to investigate the adsorption performance of normal butyl xanthate (NBX), normal butyl dithiocarbamate (NBDTC) and the novel...
Go to contribution page -
Fokotsa Molefe (North-West University)07/07/2026, 17:20
Numerous solution-based deposition methods, such as spin-coating and spray pyrolysis, are commonly used for depositing metal-oxide semiconductors, such as SnO2, TiO2, and ZnO for solid-state optoelectronic devices like sensors and photovoltaics. In this contribution, the effect of substrate temperature (Ts) on the structural, morphological, and optical properties of ZnO thin films deposited...
Go to contribution page -
Pulane Moleme (UFS)07/07/2026, 17:20
Y2SiO5 is thermally stable material with favourable optical properties, making it an excellent host for rare-earth dopants. Rare-earth doped Y2SiO5 exhibits narrow optical and spin linewidths, suitable for high-precision optical and quantum applications. Thin films of rare-earth doped Y2SiO5 are attractive due to their compatibility with modern photonic device fabrication. They preserve the...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Caleb Hlebela (Tshwane University of Technology)07/07/2026, 17:20
This work presents investigation of the structural, electrical, and stability characteristics of two spin coating fabricated InP-based thin-film solar cell architectures: the baseline Ag/InP/TiO₂/ITO/Glass configuration and a modified multilayer design incorporating Ag nanowires embedded in PMMA, a semiconducting VO₂ optical modulation layer, TiO₂, and ITO. Electrical performance under...
Go to contribution page -
Lungisani Phakathi (University of Witwatersrand)07/07/2026, 17:20
The Phase-II upgrade of the ATLAS Tile Calorimeter requires a reliable Low Voltage Power Supply (LVPS) system capable of stable operation under High-Luminosity Large Hadron Collider (HL-LHC) conditions. As part of the production quality assurance chain, a single-brick test bench has been upgraded to perform initial functional validation of LVPS converter boards prior to burn-in and...
Go to contribution page -
SAMWEL OPIYO (UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH AFRICA(UNISA))07/07/2026, 17:20
This study evaluates how nitrogen doping introduced from various precursors tune the structure of graphene oxide(GO) nanomaterial (NM) and its role in enhancing biohydrogen(bioH2) production from sugarcane bagasse(SCB). This is a great step towards generation of carbon free energy through valorization of wastes(SCB). GO was synthesized using Modified Hammer’s method while the N doping was...
Go to contribution page -
BOIKETLO THAMAGA07/07/2026, 17:20
MXenes are 2D materials which are rapidly emerging as next-generation materials for high-performance gas sensors due to their distinctive features: exceptional conductivity, modifiable surface characteristics, tweakable energy band gap, and more active sites [1]. Recent advancements have concentrated on enhancing their sensing capabilities, selectivity, and response/recovery durations. To...
Go to contribution page -
RANTSOTLHE MPHO (University of Pretoria, Department of Physics)07/07/2026, 17:20
Ti3C2:CuO quantum dot composites with different mass ratios (1:0.5, 1:1, and 1:2) were successfully synthesized by hydrofluoric acid etching of Ti3AlC2 (MAX phase) to obtain Ti₃C₂ MXene, followed by sonication-assisted intercalation of CuO quantum dots. The incorporation of CuO quantum dots effectively suppressed MXene restacking, improved ion accessibility, and introduced additional...
Go to contribution page -
Lesole Ramolise (University of the Free State)07/07/2026, 17:20
We demonstrate the controlled synthesis and in depth characterization of Y0.99VO4:0.01Bi3+ nanophosphors engineered with tunable surface decoration of Ag and Pd nanoparticles. X-ray powder diffraction analysis showed that all compositions crystallized in the tetragonal YVO4 phase, while the high-resolution field emission scanning electron microscopy revealed that the phosphors comprise...
Go to contribution page -
Luleka Menzi (Unisa)07/07/2026, 17:20
South Africa has an estimated 3.5–4 GW generated in 2025 with a projection of over 69 GW by 2050 [1]. More sites are needed in order to reach the target set of energy generated only through wind. Weather data of six months (January- June) was analyzed. Weather data of Port Edward (Longitude: 31.0670; Latitude: 30.2330), in the eastern coastline of South Africa, was provided by the South...
Go to contribution page -
Calvin Groenewald (Stellenbosch University)07/07/2026, 17:20
Quantitative Phase Imaging (QPI) methods that rely on polarization optics, such as Single-Shot Optical Quadrature Microscopy (SSOQM), offer high-speed, label-free phase measurements but are fundamentally challenged by birefringent samples.
In anisotropic media, phase retardance and polarization-dependent transmission violate the scalar phase assumption and strongly couple phase to...
Go to contribution page -
Tondani Mahuluhulu (University of Johannesburg)07/07/2026, 17:20
Organic–inorganic hybrid (OIH) materials have gained considerable attention due to their structural versatility and potential applications in photovoltaic and optoelectronic devices. However, the dominance of lead-based systems raises concerns about toxicity and environmental stability, underscoring the need for alternative lead-free hybrids. This study delves into the structural versatility...
Go to contribution page -
231. Exploring Sodium-Doped Li2MnO3@Li0.69MnO2 Core-Shell Cathodes for Enhanced Structural StabilityMukhethwa Netshiovhani (University of limpopo)07/07/2026, 17:20
Lithium-rich layered oxide Li2MnO3 is a promising cathode material for high-performance lithium-ion batteries, with a theoretical capacity of 460 mAh g-1. However, Li2MnO3 suffers from structural instability, oxygen evolution, and degradation during repeated cycling, leading to capacity loss. Core–shell nanostructures have emerged as an effective strategy to preserve structural integrity,...
Go to contribution page -
Craig Bekeur (University of Pretoria)07/07/2026, 17:20
Expanding on previous results, we consider the structural integrity and behaviour of monolayer tin disulfide (SnS$_2$). With the introduction of S- and Sn-vacancies, the substrate displayed strengthened bond energies, while also introducing significant diffusion barriers allowing for effective adatom channelling. SnS$_2$ showed promise as an anode material for Na battery technology, with the...
Go to contribution page -
Ms Abongile Gingqi (Student)07/07/2026, 17:20
The growing demand for renewable energy drives interest in biodiesel as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. In this study, waste cooking oil (WCO), an abundant and low-cost feedstock, was converted into biodiesel through esterification and transesterification using a bifunctional heterogeneous catalyst. The catalysts were synthesised by incorporating acidic (CuO) and basic (CaO) active...
Go to contribution page -
Tshepo Ntsoane (The South African Nuclear Energy Corporation)07/07/2026, 17:20
Plasma-sprayed hydroxyapatite (HAp) coatings are widely used to enhance the bioactivity and osseointegration of metallic implants however, their long-term performance under cyclic loading in physiological environments remains a critical concern [1]. In this study, HAp coatings were deposited via plasma spraying [2] onto cylindrical rod Ti64 substrates (5 mm diameter) and subjected to...
Go to contribution page -
Lutendo Phuthu07/07/2026, 17:20
Thermochromic smart windows based on vanadium dioxide (VO₂) offer energy-saving potential through temperature-dependent solar modulation, but their high transition temperature and limited efficiency remain challenges. This study investigates hybrid heterostructures combining graphene with tungsten-doped vanadium dioxide (W-VO₂) to improve performance.
First-principles calculations using...
Go to contribution page -
Percy Ngobeni07/07/2026, 17:20
The transition toward cleaner energy systems has intensified interest in advanced storage technologies such as zinc-air batteries (ZABs). Although ZABs offer high energy density and cost effectiveness, their performance is limited by sluggish air cathode kinetics. In this study, density functional theory (DFT) is used to investigate the adsorption behaviour and charge transfer characteristics...
Go to contribution page -
Ms Evonne Tshepiso Molekoa Tshepiso07/07/2026, 17:20
Abstract
Go to contribution page
As the world shifts towards green energy and sustainable living, the need for renewable energy sources is steadily rising. This study investigates the potential of eggshell membrane (ESM) as a sustainable precursor for activated carbon in hybrid solar cell applications. ESM-derived activated carbon was synthesized via pyrolysis at 600 °C under ambient and nitrogen atmospheres. The... -
Thokozani Mpanza (University of Zululand)07/07/2026, 17:20
The cobalt tungstate (CoWO4) nanostructures were prepared using the hydrothermal method. Nanostructures were annealed to compare the structural, optical and gas sensing properties of annealed and unannealed CoWO4. The UV-VIS spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron micro-scope (SEM) and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS) were used to examine the samples optical,...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Tshepang Pule (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Wits 2050, South Africa)07/07/2026, 17:20
High-energy physics (HEP) experiments operate in data-intensive environments
Go to contribution page
characterised by high event rates, complex detector systems, and the need to
extract rare signals from substantial backgrounds. This has led to the
development of robust methodologies for data acquisition, event selection,
statistical inference, and real-time data processing, particularly within
large-scale... -
Mvuyisi Mbabane (Walter Sisulu University)07/07/2026, 17:20
This study investigates the charge transport properties of printed silicon nanoparticle networks prepared from high-energy milled silicon. Hall effect measurements, complemented by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), and DC resistance measurements, were used to examine the influence of milling...
Go to contribution page -
Qiniso Nkomo (UNISA)07/07/2026, 17:20
Titania (TiO2) nanoparticles were synthesized by the co-precipitation method. The influence of different phases of TiO2 electrocatalysts was investigated on the electrochemical hydrogen evolution reaction. The XRPD results confirmed the formation of anatase, anatase-rutile, rutile-anatase, and rutile phases at calcination temperatures of 25, 350, 450, and 550 ℃. The average crystallite size...
Go to contribution page -
Mamonamane Mphahlele (University of Limpopo)07/07/2026, 17:20
Layered LiNiO2 (LNO) is a promising cathode material for lithium-ion batteries due to its high theoretical capacity and potential for reduced reliance on costly cobalt; however, its structural evolution during phase transformations critically influences performance. In this study, atomistic simulations were employed to investigate the effects of Mn and Co doping on the...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Armstrong Anonaba (Abia State University, Uturu)07/07/2026, 17:20
This study was designed to assess the practicability of modifying the properties of plaster of Paris (POP) ceiling to improve its durability and use in thermal insulation.Using plaster of Paris (POP) in buildings has generated health concerns; hence reinforcement has been made possible by adding oil palm mesocarp fibre (OPMF). Various weight proportions(0, 10,20,30 and 40%) of the OPMF were...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Sabelo Ndlela (University of Johannesburg)07/07/2026, 17:20
Abstract
Go to contribution page
Series of Gd3+ doped alkaline earth octaborate phosphors with the general formula MxBa1-xB₈O₁₃: 2% Gd³⁺ (M = Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺; x = 0.10) were synthesized through a solid state method to investigate the influence of alkaline earth ions on the structural, optical, and luminescence properties of the BaB8O13 host material. X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the formation of orthorhombic... -
Japhtalinah Lehutso (Department of Physics, CSET, University of South Africa, Johannesburg, 1710, South Africa)07/07/2026, 17:20
Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) has attracted considerable attention as a promising material for catalytic applications due to its chemical stability, low cost, and tunable structural properties. In this study, two distinct TiO2 morphologies, namely spherical and mesoporous structures, were synthesized via a sol-gel method using titanium isopropoxide (TTIP) as the precursor. Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)...
Go to contribution page -
Le Roi Du Plessis (Stellenbosch University)07/07/2026, 17:20
Optical tweezers are a sterile, non-invasive method for the isolating and manipulating single cells in suspension. When combined with microfluidic sample chambers it is possible to control the local environment of a trapped cell. This control over the extracellular environment of individual cells, allows one to monitor changes in cellular activity and cell morphology due to changes in the...
Go to contribution page -
480. Investigation of X-rays and Gamma ray Shielding Properties of Heavy Metal Oxide Glass MaterialsNosihle Msabala (University of Zululand)07/07/2026, 17:20
This study investigates neodymium-doped bismuth borosilicate glasses with composition xBi₂O₃-(55-x)B₂O₃-15BaO-10ZnO-18SiO₂-2Nd₂O₃ (x = 15, 20, 25 mol%) as lead-free radiation shielding materials for diagnostic X-ray applications. Three glass samples were successfully synthesized via melt-quenching at 1000°C. Structural characterization confirmed complete amorphization, and density measurements...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Tshepang Pule (School of Physics and Institute for Collider Particle Physics, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Wits 2050, South Africa)07/07/2026, 17:20
Air pollution poses a severe and growing public health challenge globally, with the World Health Organization estimating approximately 4.2 million premature deaths annually attributable to ambient air pollution.
Go to contribution page
Traditional monitoring infrastructure comprised of large, fixed reference
stations is costly, spatially sparse, and incapable of real-time,
high-resolution pollution mapping. This... -
106. Jet Response and Resolution Studies of the ATLAS TileCal Upgrade Geometry for HL-LHC ConditionsEdward Nkadimeng (NRF-iThemba LABS)07/07/2026, 17:20
The Phase-II upgrade of the ATLAS Tile Calorimeter (TileCal) is designed to maintain detector performance under High-Luminosity Large Hadron Collider (HL-LHC) conditions, where up to 200 proton–proton interactions per bunch crossing are expected. This study evaluates the impact of the upgraded detector geometry on jet reconstruction performance using Monte Carlo simulated QCD dijet samples....
Go to contribution page -
Modicai Samukelo Mndebele07/07/2026, 17:20
The spatial distribution of naturally occurring radionuclides (⁴⁰K, ²³²Th, and ²³⁸U) at Sparkle Bay, Western Cape can be investigated with an integrated approach using UAV-based gamma-ray spectrometry, least-squares optimisation, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The airborne gamma-ray data were obtained with a sodium iodide (NaI(Tl)) detector attached to an unmanned aerial vehicle...
Go to contribution page -
Boitumelo Tladi (University of Free State)07/07/2026, 17:20
The development of highly sensitive gas sensors that do not require elevated operating temperatures remains critical for the safe detection of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). Nickel cobaltite (NiCo2O4) is a p-type bimetallic oxide that has been extensively studied for the detection of volatile organic compounds, although its potential for LPG detection has received limited attention....
Go to contribution page -
Aaron Malape (University of the Free State)07/07/2026, 17:20
Cerium oxide (CeO2) nanomaterials are being studied as potential candidates for gas sensors. Gas sensors based on metal oxides and their nanocomposites have attracted significant public attention over the past decades due to their excellent potential for applications in environmental pollution remediation, the transportation industry, and personal safety. Thus, herein, CeO2 nanostructured...
Go to contribution page -
SAM MKHWEBANE07/07/2026, 17:20
Abstract
Go to contribution page
In the era of Industry 4.0, the transition toward fully autonomous man
ufacturing requires robust Tool Condition Monitoring (TCM) to prevent
catastrophic tool failure and workpiece damage. Precise prediction of cut
ting tool wear and remaining useful life (RUL) is necessary for reducing
downtime and optimizing tool usage in automated machining. However,
manual inspection... -
Matthew Marlor (Stellenbosch University)07/07/2026, 17:20
Fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) is a technique in which a focused laser beam excites molecules within a small volume and fluctuations in the emitted fluorescence are analysed to extract information about molecular dynamics. These fluctuations arise from stochastic processes such as diffusion, photophysical transitions, and chemical kinetics, and are quantified through the...
Go to contribution page -
Malili Matshaba (CPhy Membership)07/07/2026, 17:20
The study analyses the temperature-dependent behaviour of gold (Au) and lead (Pb) nanomaterials using classical Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations in the NPT ensemble, utilizing the Sutton-Chen potential. The primary objective is to determine the effect of temperature on the structural properties, thermal stability and energy of different cluster sizes (459, 791 and 1061 atoms). The results...
Go to contribution page -
Donald Ngobeni07/07/2026, 17:20
Air pollution remains a serious environmental and public health challenge, creating a strong need for accurate, affordable, and real-time monitoring systems, especially in developing contexts such as South Africa. Recent studies show that smart air quality monitoring can be significantly improved through the integration of low-cost sensor networks, machine learning, and environmental data...
Go to contribution page -
Tshepiso Thompson Rauwane (student)07/07/2026, 17:20
Neutron Transmutation Doping (NTD)
This area explores the technique of using nuclear reactors to modify the electrical properties of semiconductor materials, particularly silicon, for high-performance electronic components. The project aims to optimize the neutron transmutation doping process at the Nuclear Energy Corporation of South Africa (NECSA) SAFARI-1 research reactor, focusing on...
Go to contribution page -
Beauty Shibiri (University of Limpopo)07/07/2026, 17:20
Spinel-structured materials such as lithium cobalt oxide (LiCo₂O₄) and lithium manganese oxide (LiMn₂O₄) are promising cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries due to their good electrochemical performance, which is attributed to their three-dimensional lithium-ion diffusion pathways. However, these materials undergo high voltage and capacity decay during cycling. This is caused by...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Thapelo Mafabatho07/07/2026, 17:20
Accurate quantification of naturally occurring radionuclides such as thorium (Th), potassium (K) and uranium (U) is essential for environmental monitoring, mineral exploration and radiological assessment. This study focuses on the optimisation of radionuclide measurement by comparing in situ gamma spectrometry data with laboratory-based inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS)...
Go to contribution page -
Caitlin van Wyk07/07/2026, 17:20
Fibre optics enables the transmission of light through total internal reflection and underpins modern telecommunication systems. For efficient optical signal amplification over long distances, fibres are usually directly doped with luminescent ions and pumped with laser diodes. While this approach is simple, currently there is a lack of cost-effective and efficient fibre amplifiers operating...
Go to contribution page -
Nicholas Onkoba (UNISA)07/07/2026, 17:20
Titanium oxide is a promising corrosion-resistant catalyst support for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells; however, its low electrical conductivity and wide band-gap limits performance. In this work, titanium oxynitride materials were synthesized via two routes: a sol–gel method followed by thermal nitridation at 650 °C, and a hydrothermal...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Kelvin Matamela (University of Johannesburg)07/07/2026, 17:20
Nanocrystalline diamond has attracted significant attention as a protective material for extreme environments due to its exceptional hardness, high thermal conductivity, chemical stability, and radiation resistance. However, exposure to high-energy radiation can induce lattice defects in diamond—such as vacancies, interstitials, and substitutional defects—that may alter its structural and...
Go to contribution page -
Mubarak Yagoub (University of Johannesburg)07/07/2026, 17:20
Nanomaterials have recently attracted increased attention due to their use in many applications, including solar energy conversion, sensors, transparent electrodes, and catalysis. The grain size of these materials plays a crucial role in determining their optical properties. Size-dependent nanomaterials have various potential applications in optoelectronics, color displays, lasers, biological...
Go to contribution page -
Mahlatse komape (UNIVERSITY OF LIMPOPO), Dr Thomas Malwela07/07/2026, 17:20
The agricultural sector is a key component of the global economy. Driven by human demand for quality agricultural products, the use of nitrogen fertilizer (N-fertilizer) grows rapidly due to an increased need for dietary protein, including animal protein. Nitrogen is one of the significant indicators of soil fertility and crop growth conditions. Hence, monitoring the concentration of nitrogen...
Go to contribution page -
Yugesh Singh Thakur (Department of Physics, University of the Free State (UFS), Bloemfontein, ZA 9300, South Africa)07/07/2026, 17:20
Bismuth oxychloride (BiOCl) is a promising electrode material for energy storage due to its layered structure and redox activity; however, its low intrinsic electrical conductivity and pronounced potential drop limit practical performance. In this work, a conducting polymer–based modification strategy is anticipated, in which polypyrrole (PPy) is incorporated into BiOCl to enhance...
Go to contribution page -
Ms Pashlene Naidoo (University of Witswatersrand)07/07/2026, 17:20
Quantum entanglement remains the fundamental cornerstone of modern quantum
Go to contribution page
information protocols, including quantum cryptography, computing, and communication.
Despite this, there are very few quantum entanglement setups available in Africa. Here, we
show how to set up a quantum experiment and verify quantum entanglement to estimate the
properties of quantum states using quantum state... -
Zamaswazi Tshabalala (University of the Free State)07/07/2026, 17:20
Nitrogen oxides (NOx) are among the most hazardous air pollutants emitted from combustion processes in mining, industrial, and transportation sectors, posing severe risks to human health and atmospheric quality. The development of semiconductor based gas sensors that combine high sensitivity with low power consumption remains a critical challenge. In this study, Pd-sensitized Co3O4/NiTiO3...
Go to contribution page -
Nikisha Baboolal (University of the Witwatersrand)07/07/2026, 17:20
Deformable mirrors are a type of optical element with a reflective surface that can change shape, through different mechanisms. These devices allow for adaptive control of reflected wavefronts offering a method for real-time aberration correction. For this reason, deformable mirrors have a wide range of optical applications from correcting for distortions due to atmospheric turbulence in...
Go to contribution page -
Mpilo Dlamini (North-West University)07/07/2026, 17:20
Over the past two decades, there has been a significant progress in incorporating inorganic nanofillers into polymer blends, leading to enhanced performance of organic photovoltaic (OPV) devices. In this work, Poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl):phenyl-C61-butyric-acid methyl-ester (P3HT:PCBM) photoactive layer blend was doped with 1, 3, and 5 wt% of ZnO:Ag nanoparticles (NPs). The ZnO:Ag NPs were...
Go to contribution page -
Thakgalo Mangena (Mr Thakgalo Mangena, University of Stellenbosch Physics Department)07/07/2026, 17:20
Theranostics approach in TRNT (Targeted Radionuclide Therapy) have gained interest as an alternative method to chemotherapy for their effectiveness in combining imaging and treatment for cancer. Theranostics involves using the same targeting molecule with different radioactive isotopes for a well monitored TRNT. Two useful isotopes in TRNT are terbium Tb-149 and actinium Ac-225. This study...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Jean Jules Mboukam (Tshwane University of Technology)07/07/2026, 17:20
The sputtering behaviour of CaF₂ thin films produced on Si and graphite substrates was studied in this paper. The study seeks to clarify the role of substrate material, specifically conductive versus semiconductive and structurally different surfaces, on the sputtering yield and surface modification of CaF₂. Thin films of CaF₂ were deposited on both substrates using an e-beam deposition method...
Go to contribution page -
Prince Phathizwe Majozi (UNIZULU)07/07/2026, 17:20
Nanocrystalline CuxMn1-xFe2O4 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.8) ferrites with particle sizes in the range of approximately 8-22 nm were synthesized via a low-temperature glycol-thermal route and systematically investigated for their structural and magnetic properties. X-ray diffraction confirmed the formation of a single-phase cubic spinel structure. The lattice parameter decreased monotonically from 8.506 Å to...
Go to contribution page -
Saheed Omotosho Yissah (University of Johannesburg)07/07/2026, 17:20
Rare-earth titanate pyrochlores of the general formula R₂Ti₂O₇ have attracted considerable interest owing to their flexible structural chemistry and multifunctional physical properties. In this work, dysprosium titanate (Dy₂Ti₂O₇) and samarium titanate (Sm₂Ti₂O₇) were successfully synthesized using the sol-gel method and subsequently calcined at 1000 0C to obtain phase-pure pyrochlore samples....
Go to contribution page -
Chidiebere Ekwomadu (north west university)07/07/2026, 17:20
Carbonate reservoirs account for a substantial share of global hydrocarbon reserves and are increasingly relevant for subsurface energy applications such as carbon capture and storage, geothermal exploitation, and hydrogen storage. Their potential lies in large pore volumes, dual porosity systems, and complex fracture networks that can enhance fluid storage and transmission. However, these...
Go to contribution page -
Redrisse Djoumessi Fobasso (University of Johannesburg)07/07/2026, 17:20
The magnetic behaviour of Gd is amongst those that exhibit the most striking characteristics. It is among the few elements capable of changing its magnetic characteristics from ferromagnetism at ambient temperatures to paramagnetism at a comparatively low temperature, that is, at around 20°C. This capacity to change its magnetic characteristics is crucial for application in magnetic...
Go to contribution page -
Delicacy Ntshalintshali (University of the Free State - Qwaqwa Campus)07/07/2026, 17:20
Research on phosphor materials has gained prominence due to the prospective applications of rare-earth (RE³⁺) ion-activated phosphors in sensors, displays, and lighting. This study presents the synthesis of novel red light-emitting Pr³⁺-doped La₂ZnTiO₆ nanophosphors using a citric acid-assisted method. This study systematically investigated how varying Pr³⁺ doping concentrations (0 ≤ x ≤ 4.0)...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Lekgolo Maebana (University of free state)07/07/2026, 17:20
Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is a very hazardous gas to human health that requires specialized detection at low temperatures for environmental monitoring. This study investigated synthesized rare-earth (RE)-doped CuO/ZrO2 p-n heterostructures doped with various concentrations (0.5-1%) of Ho3⁺ and Yb3⁺ ions via a hydrolysis process and their applications for gas sensing. X-ray powder diffraction...
Go to contribution page -
Mr IRENEE BRICE MOUADJE MOUADJE (University of Johannesburg)07/07/2026, 17:20
A theoretical investigation of electronic and magnetic properties of La2NiRuO6 is studied through density functional theory (DFT) using plane augmented wave method and Monte Carlo simulations. Spin-polarized first-principles calculations are carried out within the DFT+U framework to properly account for electronic correlations associated with the Ni-3d and Ru-4d states. The analysis of the...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Happy Vilakazi (UNISA)07/07/2026, 17:20
Weakly bound and halo nuclei, with low binding energies and extended spatial distributions, provide a unique testing ground for nuclear forces and reaction dynamics. Despite lot of studies done on this, unresolved questions remain regarding breakup mechanisms—particularly whether projectiles dissociate on incoming or outgoing trajectories at deep sub-barrier energies ( [1 - 2]). This research...
Go to contribution page -
Vuako Maluleke (University of Venda, iThemba LABS)07/07/2026, 17:20
Financial physics, also known as econophysics, applies concepts from statistical mechanics and complex systems theory to financial markets. This study investigates whether super-diffusive scaling of price trajectories can serve as a quantitative precursor to market crashes, drawing an analogy with charged particle tracking detectors.
In high-energy particle detectors, the mean square...
Go to contribution page -
Dr sandeep eswaran panchu (university of the free state)07/07/2026, 17:20
Single-component white light phosphors with high thermal stability and balanced photometric properties are essential for next-generation solid-state lighting. In this work, Dy3+-activated SrGd2O4 phosphors were successfully synthesized using a hydrothermal method followed by calcination, and the influence of symmetry-driven site engineering on their structural, optical, and luminescent...
Go to contribution page -
Lindokuhle Mabizela (university of the free state)07/07/2026, 17:20
Abstract: The rising emission of aromatic volatile organic compounds (VOCs), particularly xylene, presents serious environmental and health concerns. Xylene is primarily released from petrochemical industries and automobile exhaust, and exposure to it at different periods can cause skin and eye irritation, respiratory problems, neurological impairment, and deterioration of the central nervous...
Go to contribution page -
Katlego Morulane (University of the Free State)07/07/2026, 17:20
The rapid and precise detection of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), particularly acetone (C3H6O), is essential for environmental monitoring, industrial safety, and healthcare diagnostics. Due to the increased morbidity and mortality rates of metabolic diseases (i.e., diabetes), portable advanced n-p and n-p-n SMO-based acetone sensors should be considered for detecting and monitoring low...
Go to contribution page -
Salahudeen Adamu Gene (Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, Nigeria)07/07/2026, 17:20
Abstract:
Go to contribution page
Supercapacitors (SC) are excellent energy storage solutions for electronics because they offer greater energy and power densities than traditional capacitors and batteries. Developing efficient and sustainable biochar-based electrode materials continues to be a challenge for developing green energy storage devices. In this study, activated carbons (AC) were produced from... -
Christy Graced07/07/2026, 17:20
Iron aluminide is a metal alloy that possesses unique properties, including high strength and temperature resistance, making it suitable for applications in the aerospace and energy sectors. Previous studies show that the intermetallic compound FeAl is far more ductile at room temperature, with a melting point of 1473 K, limiting its use to intermediate temperature applications. Due to their...
Go to contribution page -
Ms Andile Mazibuko (University of Limpopo)07/07/2026, 17:20
Understanding the thermodynamic stability of TiCl3 polymorphs is only one component of improving titanium reduction processes. Transport behaviour and thermal response under reactor-relevant conditions must also be understood. In this study, classical molecular dynamics simulations were employed to evaluate the temperature-dependent heat capacity and ionic mobility of the R-3 and P3112...
Go to contribution page -
Eugene Fouche (Stellenbosch University)07/07/2026, 17:20
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an interferometric imaging technique used to image samples such as the human eye in 2 or 3 dimensions, with micrometer resolution and millimeter penetration depths. A broad bandwidth pulsed laser is scanned across the sample, and for each laser beam position a depth profile of the sample is obtained. These depth scans are stitched together to create a 2D...
Go to contribution page -
Ms Mamly Serero (Mineral Processing and Technology Research Centre, Department of Metallurgy, School of Mining, Metallurgy and Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and The Built Environment, University of Johannesburg,)07/07/2026, 17:20
Artisanal aluminum pots, which are common in Latin America, Asia, and Africa, are commonly made by smelting scrap metal into cooking equipment. Particularly in rural regions where three-legged aluminum pots are often used, the chemical mechanisms involved in reverse impurity diffusion in aluminum cookware have significant implications for food safety. High temperatures and prolonged contact...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Sifiso Mthalane (PhysicsDepartment, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, 3886, South Africa)07/07/2026, 17:20
The performance of very high-temperature gas-cooled reactors (VHTRs), such as the pebble bed modular reactor (PBMR), relies on the effective retention of fission products (FPs) within the fuel. Silicon carbide (SiC), used as a primary diffusion barrier in nuclear fuel, is exposed to both FPs and helium (He) generated from alpha decay and transmutation processes. In this work, the influence of...
Go to contribution page -
DINEO MOLEBATSI (UNISA)07/07/2026, 17:20
In this study, n-type and p-type semiconductor metal fluoride (M-F) gas sensors were synthesized using a straightforward and scalable co-precipitation method. Their structural, morphological, vibrational, and gas-sensing properties were investigated. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the successful formation of well-crystallized n-type (ZrF₂, SnF₂, ZnF₂) and p-type (NiF₂, CrF₂, CoF₂)...
Go to contribution page -
NHLAKANIPHO WISEMAN KHOZA (UNIVERSITY OF ZULULAND)07/07/2026, 17:20
Nhlakanipho Khoza1,2 ,Puleng Biyela1 and Prince Mkwae1
1Department of Physics, University of Zululand, Private Bag X1001, KwaDlangezwa, 3886, South Africa
2Mangosuthu University of Technology, 511 Griffiths Mxenge Hwy, Umlazi, Durban, 4031, South Africa200903453@stu.unizulu.ac.za
Abstract
In this study, zinc oxide (ZnO) nanostructures were synthesized on a silicon (Si) substrate...
Go to contribution page -
Rifumo Chauke (University of Pretoria)07/07/2026, 17:20
This study investigates the effects of helium (He) co-implantation and swift heavy ion (SHI) irradiation on the structural evolution and migration behaviour of silver (Ag) in polycrystalline silicon carbide (SiC), followed by thermal annealing. SiC samples were first implanted with 360 keV Ag ions at room temperature to a fluence of 2 × 10¹⁶ cm⁻², producing significant amorphization. A subset...
Go to contribution page -
Mmeshi Hiine (UL)07/07/2026, 17:20
While Ni-rich layered cathode materials like are highly sought after for next-generation lithium-ion batteries due to their high capacity and cost-effectiveness, their inherent structural instability remains a significant barrier to practical application. To address this, the present work systematically investigates the impact of fluorine doping on the phase stability and electronic properties...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Moshibudi Ramoshaba (UNIVERSITY OF LIMPOPO)07/07/2026, 17:20
Tungsten diselenide (WSe₂), a layered transition metal dichalcogenide, has attracted significant attention due to its promising electronic and thermoelectric properties. In this study, the thermoelectric performance of WSe₂ is systematically investigated using first-principles calculations based on density functional theory (DFT) combined with semi-classical Boltzmann transport theory. The...
Go to contribution page -
Edward Nkadimeng (University of the Witwatersrand)07/07/2026, 17:20
Reaction diffusion systems can spontaneously develop stable spatial
Go to contribution page
concentration patterns when two coupled chemical species diffuse at
sufficiently different rates, a symmetry-breaking phenomenon known
as the Turing instability. The onset of this instability depends
critically on the ratio of inhibitor to activator diffusivities,
$d = D_v/D_u$, and on the reaction kinetics, both of which... -
Beauty Masolo (University of Pretoria)07/07/2026, 17:20
Bi₂Se₃ is a three-dimensional topological material with distinct electronic properties, characterized by an insulating bulk and conducting surface states. These surface states are protected by time-reversal symmetry, making this material a promising candidate for quantum computing applications. Understanding the topological state of Bi₂Se₃ at the atomic level, and its ability to mitigate...
Go to contribution page -
Marcus Nkhumeleni (None)07/07/2026, 17:20
Palladium (Pd) metal in the UG-2 orebody of the Eastern Bushveld Igneous Complex presents recovery challenges. Ore deposit used for the study contains significant concentration of this metal, which renders its recovery critical for the overall PGE recovery. Conventional recovery techniques employed have proven to have limitations in terms of optimising Pd-bearing minerals recovery. Although...
Go to contribution page -
Tebogo Ledwaba (Stellenbosch University)07/07/2026, 17:20
The imaging and quantitative analysis of defects such as porosity and cracks are essential steps in optimizing the laser-powder bed fusion (L-PBF) process parameters for a given material. Most studies to date rely on optical microscopy, which provides only two-dimensional surface cross-sections. X-ray computed tomography (XCT) offers added advantages, including three-dimensional information...
Go to contribution page -
Fortune Nndwamato07/07/2026, 17:20
Paleontological fossils serve as invaluable archives of Earth’s history, preserving direct evidence of past life and environmental conditions. However, conventional analytical techniques often risk damaging these inherently fragile specimens. In this study, non-destructive X-ray–based methods were employed to investigate fossilized bone and wood specimens. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) was used to...
Go to contribution page -
Thabang Theka07/07/2026, 17:20
The spinel-structured zinc gallate (ZnGa2O4) has received a lot of interest lately due to its broad bandgap, strong ultraviolet (UV) transmittance, and stability in vacuum. As a member of the transparent metal oxide semiconductor family, ZnGa2O4 is a potential phosphor due to its thermal and chemical stability as well as its blue emission when exposed to electrons with low voltage or UV...
Go to contribution page -
Prof. Lynndle Square (North West University)08/07/2026, 08:30
What does a physicist look like in the Fourth Industrial Revolution? While advances in computational modelling, artificial intelligence, advanced materials, sensing technologies, and data-driven discovery are transforming the discipline, the future of physics will be determined not only by technological innovation but also by our ability to connect research, education, industry, and society...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Geoff Murphy (University of the Western Cape)08/07/2026, 09:30
Foreground contamination remains one of the central challenges in 21 cm intensity mapping, and as experiments become more sensitive, our analysis methods need to keep pace. I'll present a Bayesian forward-modelling framework for jointly separating foregrounds and the 21 cm signal in single-dish data cubes, using Gibbs sampling and Gaussian Constrained Realisations (GCR).
Go to contribution page
The key challenge we... -
Mphiriseni Khwanda (University of johannesburg)08/07/2026, 09:30Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
A sound understanding of fundamental concepts is a key goal of science education; however, both pre-service and in-service teachers often demonstrate limited conceptual understanding, particularly in direct current (DC) circuits. Grounded in constructivist learning theory, which emphasizes the role of prior knowledge in meaningful learning, this study highlights the importance of diagnostic...
Go to contribution page -
Tinashe Dhliwayo (University of Johannesburg)08/07/2026, 09:30Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
Research into new, cost-effective photon-shielding materials is on the rise amid rising electromagnetic pollution. Double perovskite oxides are possible candidates for low-energy photon shielding due to their flexible structure. In this work, we report the effects of substituting the lanthanide site and B site on the effectiveness of the material in shielding low-energy photons. At energies...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Dr. Kumar Haunsbhavi (University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa)08/07/2026, 09:30Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
Indium sulfide (〖In〗_2 S_3) is an intriguing semiconductor and has been extensively utilized as a
Go to contribution page
UV photodetector. In this study, we report the fabrication of gadolinium (Gd)-doped 〖In〗_2 S_3 thin films prepared via the nebulized spray pyrolysis technique (NSP). The X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirms a cubic β- 〖In〗_2 S_3 phase, polycrystalline structure. Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis)... -
David Roth (MeASURe, Department of Physics, University of Cape Town)08/07/2026, 09:30
Cylindrical arrays of permanent magnets are being increasingly used to generate the main magnetic field in low-field Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). A class of Halbach arrays, these arrangements of permanent magnets result in increased magnetic flux density within the cylinder, and reduced flux density outside. Sparse Halbach arrays can produce a field strength suitable for low-field MRI,...
Go to contribution page -
Siyanda Hlathi (University of KwaZulu-Natal and SANSA)08/07/2026, 09:30
This study investigates the mesoscale interaction between thermospheric neutral winds and electric fields in the F-region ionosphere in the presence of an auroral arc using data from the SuperDARN radar network and a Scanning Doppler Imager (SDI) at Kevo, northern Finland (69.76° N, 27.01° E). Observed perturbed wind patterns are attributed to enhanced ion drag caused by increased plasma...
Go to contribution page -
Kingsley Onyebuchi Obodo (University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg)08/07/2026, 09:30Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsOral Presentation
The rapid evolution of computational materials science is redefining how materials are designed, understood, and optimized. This presentation highlights the transition from traditional first-principles modelling to data-driven materials discovery frameworks. Early work, grounded in Density Functional Theory (DFT), focused on elucidating the electronic, magnetic, and structural properties of...
Go to contribution page -
Eugene Fouche (Stellenbosch University)08/07/2026, 09:30
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an interferometric imaging technique used to image samples such as the human eye in 2 or 3 dimensions, with micrometer resolution and millimeter penetration depths. A broad bandwidth pulsed laser is scanned across the sample, and for each laser beam position a depth profile of the sample is obtained. These depth scans are stitched together to create a 2D...
Go to contribution page -
Marry Thekhwe (University of Cape Town)08/07/2026, 09:50
Ultra-high dose rate (UHDR), mostly referred to as FLASH radiotherapy, has emerged as a promising treatment modality capable of reducing normal tissue toxicity in a cancerous tumour. However, the underlying physical and radiochemical mechanisms of this FLASH radiotherapy remain incompletely understood. In this study, high-dose-rate proton irradiation was investigated using Monte Carlo...
Go to contribution page -
Kevin Barends (University of Cape Town)08/07/2026, 09:50Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
The production of a top quark in association with a Z and W boson (tWZ) is a rare Standard Model process that provides a sensitive probe of top quark electroweak couplings and constitutes an important background to searches for physics beyond the Standard Model. This contribution presents a study of the sensitivity to tWZ production in the four-lepton (4ℓ) final state with the ATLAS...
Go to contribution page -
Lungelo Chabaku (University of zululand)08/07/2026, 09:50
The discovery of exoplanets has revolutionized modern Astronomy and the way we understand planetary motion and our planetary system. The transit method as a technique, used to look for extrasolar planets, is one of the most effective techniques in detecting exoplanets. This study focuses on the principles, applications and challenges of the transit method in identifying exoplanets. Moreover,...
Go to contribution page -
Prof. Buyisiwe Sondezi (University of Johannesburg)08/07/2026, 09:50Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
The ternary CeTX (T = d-electron transition metal and X = p-electron element) compounds exhibit a wide range of interesting phenomena depending on the degree of hybridization between the 4f electrons and the conduction electrons. A substantial experimental work has investigated the physical and transport properties of these compounds. The metallic behavior exhibited by these compounds acts as...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Sanele Lionel Khanyile (South African National Space Agency and Rhodes University)08/07/2026, 09:50
This study investigates geomagnetic field variations over the South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA) using three regional models developed with the Revised Spherical Cap Harmonic Analysis (R-SCHA). The combined models cover a broad region from 90°W to 35°E in longitude and from 5°S to 49°S in latitude. To effectively capture spatial variability, the study area is divided into three overlapping spherical...
Go to contribution page -
Veronica Kgabisang Gouws (Tomsk Polytechnic University)08/07/2026, 09:50Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
The radioisotope, Lu-177 is emerging as an important radioisotope for treatment of the cancer such as breast, prostate, colon, and brain, with a longer half-life of 6.65 days. The Lu-177 can be produced by indirect Yb-176(n,γ) Yb-177→Lu-177 route which requires a chemical separation of Lu-177 from the target Yb-176 target atoms.The method of separation of Yb and Lu were used via Yb-176(n,γ)...
Go to contribution page -
Khanyisile Masemola (University of the Witwatersrand)08/07/2026, 09:50Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsOral Presentation
Electric vehicles and renewable energy storage demand batteries that are cheaper, longer-lasting, and more powerful than current lithium-ion technology. Battery chemistry happens at the atomic level, where quantum physics rules apply. Traditional computers struggle to model these quantum interactions accurately. Quantum computing represents a promising paradigm shift in how we model battery...
Go to contribution page -
Calvin Groenewald (Stellenbosch University)08/07/2026, 09:50
Quantitative Phase Imaging (QPI) enables non-invasive, label-free measurement of optical path length variations within transparent samples, facilitating three-dimensional reconstruction of sample structure and dynamics from two-dimensional microscopy images.
Building on our earlier development and demonstration of Single-Shot Optical Quadrature Microscopy (SSOQM), a polarization-based...
Go to contribution page -
Dr FHULUFHELO NEMANGWELE (University of Venda)08/07/2026, 09:50Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
Science centres play a critical role in advancing STEM education, public engagement and innovation capacity in South Africa. Positioned at the interface of formal education, science policy, and community practice. It addresses persistent challenges such as low participation in STEM and limited access to high-quality STEM learning opportunities. Despite their strategic importance, evaluations...
Go to contribution page -
Nkosiphendule Njara08/07/2026, 10:10Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
The Paarl Africa Underground Laboratory (PAUL), which will be located in the Huguenot Tunnel under the Du Toitskloof Mountains near Cape Town, South Africa, is Africa's first underground facility specifically for rare-event physics. The site has about 800 m of rock overburden, which protects it from cosmic rays and makes it possible to look for dark matter. Previous GEANT4 studies and...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Lutendo Phuthu (University of venda), Ms Marandela Mulalo (University of venda), Mr clarence mabaso (University of venda)08/07/2026, 10:10Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
Extended Curriculum Programmes (ECPs) are designed to enhance student access to higher education in South Africa. Even though there is growing research on extended curriculum programmes, major gaps remain in explaining how students transition into mainstream physics curricula. The aim of this research paper is to examine the relationship between performance in foundation Physics modules and...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Hudson Mims (University of Michigan and South African National Space Agency)08/07/2026, 10:10
Traveling ionospheric disturbances (TIDs) are signatures of Atmospheric Gravity Waves (AGWs) in the ionosphere. They can be studied using different ionospheric parameters such as plasma temperature, electron density and altitudes of respective ionospheric layers.
Go to contribution page
Distinguishing effects of TIDs on the overall system behaviour requires estimation of background conditions. This presentation will... -
Moses Gororo (University of Cape Town)08/07/2026, 10:10
A team based at the University of Cape Town is well advanced with a project which will return a proton therapy centre to Cape Town, South Africa [1]. The new facility will serve as both a national facility for South Africa and provide access to other countries in the sub-Saharan region. The city of Cape Town offers geographic and technical advantages for the siting of the new centre, which...
Go to contribution page -
Le Roi Du Plessis (Stellenbosch University)08/07/2026, 10:10
Optical tweezers have long been used as a tool for manipulating micro- and nanoscale objects, with applications in biological systems and modelling colloidal crystal structures. Recently, optical tweezers have been incorporated into microfluidic chips for isolating single cells and force measurements. In this talk, we present a single-cell monitoring platform which uses holographic optical...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Tshegofatso Tshipi (Sol Plaatje University), Dr Ishmael Gopane (Sol Plaatje University)08/07/2026, 10:10Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsOral Presentation
We have previously shown that unsupervised Physics‑Informed Neural Networks can give promising results for quantum few‑body problems, where we computed the s‑wave bound states generated by a toy potential and the Woods–Saxon potential. The method performed well for the toy potential, but it struggled to learn the second excited state of the Woods–Saxon potential. This difficulty arose because...
Go to contribution page -
Jodinio Lemena (University of the Free State)08/07/2026, 10:10Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
We report the room-temperature (RT) detection of trace-level acetone using a W₁₈O₄₉-based gas sensor incorporating a minor secondary WO₃ phase. The sensing material was synthesized using the solvothermal method, yielding nanoparticles along with sparsely separated nanorods as photographed using SEM and TEM instruments. The intrinsic properties (i.e., crystal structure, and defect states) of...
Go to contribution page -
Prof. Buyisiwe Sondezi (University of Johannesburg)08/07/2026, 10:10Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
The advancement of time, which comes along with the evolution in technology, necessitates a targeted research focus for various applications. In material science and the use of materials for various applications, radiation and shielding are critical aspects to deal with, especially for the health of the users. Attenuation of harmful electromagnetic radiation is of great importance. In this...
Go to contribution page -
Liam Delaney08/07/2026, 11:00Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
Soil texture is a fundamental parameter in agricultural systems, strongly influencing crop performance and informing soil management decisions. Accurate spatial mapping of soil texture, along with related physical and chemical properties such as bulk density, soil moisture, total organic carbon (TOC), and total nitrogen (TN), is therefore essential for effective and targeted cultivation...
Go to contribution page -
Ms Bridgette Kabekwa (Department of Physics, University of Limpopo, Private bag X 1106, Sovenga, 0727, Polokwane, South Africa)08/07/2026, 11:00Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
Bridgette Kabekwa1, Mulatedzi Gandamipfa1, Petros Ntoahae1, Eli Danladi2,3 and Rapela Maphanga4,5
1Department of Physics, University of Limpopo, Private bag X 1106, Sovenga, 0727, Polokwane, South Africa
Go to contribution page
2Department of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Central University of Technology, Free State, South Africa
3 Department of Physics, Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo, Benue... -
Delron Dananai Muti (University of Johannesburg (ZA))08/07/2026, 11:00
The High-Luminosity Large Hadron Collider (HL-LHC) upgrade will increase proton-proton collision rates by a factor of 5-7 times, requiring a complete redesign of the A Toroidal LHC ApparatuS (ATLAS) Tile Calorimeter (TileCal) readout electronics. The Tile Computer on Module (TileCoM) serves as the embedded control interface, responsible for remote programming, configuration, and real-time...
Go to contribution page -
Mosima Masipa (University of the Western Cape)08/07/2026, 11:00
Radio frequency Interference (RFI) can contaminate data collected by radio telescopes, making it difficult to distinguish between the target cosmological signal and artificial signals caused by RFI sources. Manually flagging RFI is time-consuming,so we turn to machine learning algorithms as a possible solution to detect/flag these RFI signals. We implemented a UNet, which is a Convolutional...
Go to contribution page -
Prof. John Bosco Habarulema (South African National Space Agency)08/07/2026, 11:00
This talk presents a new empirical vertical E×B drift model developed using ground‐based magnetometer, radar, and satellite data over equatorial latitude regions. The model is constructed by combining global data from the Communications and Navigation Outage Forecasting System (C/NOFS) satellite, magnetometer derived vertical drifts estimated using the differential magnetometer approach and...
Go to contribution page -
Baballo-Victor Ndhlovu (University of the Witwatersrand)08/07/2026, 11:00Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
In this work, we study the sensitivity of a diphoton analysis to potential resonant signals using ATLAS Run-3 data and Monte Carlo (MC) simulated samples. The analysis focuses on optimising event selection and object identification, including studies of electron identification working points and event-level requirements, to improve discrimination between MC signal and Standard Model...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Phala Wesley Masoga (University of Limpopo)08/07/2026, 11:00Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
This study explored the impact of the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) approach on developing problem-solving skills in electric circuits for Grade 12 learners. Diagnostic reports and classroom formative assessments showed that learners have challenges when solving electric circuits, particularly in real-life questions that require an understanding of current and potential difference, thus...
Go to contribution page -
Jacques Buÿs (Stellenbosch University)08/07/2026, 11:00
Light-sheet fluorescence microscopy provides rapid volumetric imaging of biological specimens with reduced photodamage by confining excitation to a thin optical plane. Combined with two-photon excitation fluorescence (2PEF), it enables deeper imaging with reduced background, making it well-suited to scattering samples.
Past nonlinear light-sheet implementations are limited by non-uniform...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Vuyolwethu Happyboy Kakancu (School of Physics and Institute for Collider Particle Physics, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Wits 2050, South Africa)08/07/2026, 11:20Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
Searches for di-photon resonances at the ATLAS experiment in the intermediate mass range of $130-200\,\mathrm{GeV}$ remain largely unexplored, with previous studies primarily focusing on the low-mass $66-110\,\mathrm{GeV}$ and high-mass $200-3000\,\mathrm{GeV}$ regions. In this work, we investigate the $\gamma\gamma + 1\tau^{\mathrm{had}}$ final state in the intermediate-mass region,...
Go to contribution page -
Hlulani Ndlovu (Tshwane University Technology)08/07/2026, 11:20
Understanding of the behaviour of a Schottky contact is important in the design of optoelectronic devices such as solar cells and photosensors. The behaviour of Schottky diodes depends on physical parameters like the thickness of the metal contact layer and electro-optical parameters of the active layer. Schottky contacts between metals and organic semiconductors are of importance in the...
Go to contribution page -
Ayabulela Tsewu08/07/2026, 11:20Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
The generalized Brink-Axel (gBA) hypothesis is central to $\gamma$-ray strength function ($\gamma$SF) extraction and nucleosynthesis reaction network calculations, yet remains insufficiently tested. We present the first experimental test of the gBA hypothesis in the mid-mass odd-odd nucleus $^{140}$La. The results confirm the validity of the gBA for this nucleus, supporting its use in both...
Go to contribution page -
Farelanani Makatu (University of the Witwatersrand)08/07/2026, 11:20Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsOral Presentation
The quark-gluon plasma (QGP) is a deconfined state of matter produced in heavy-ion collisions, whose properties can be probed through the azimuthal anisotropy of particle production in the medium. Beauty hadrons are useful as sensitive probes of the QGP due to their large quark mass, however their behaviour at forward rapidities is not well recorded. Here, we present a study of b-hadron...
Go to contribution page -
170. Investigation of Phonon Emission Modes in a Channel-Gated GaAs/AlGaAs Finger-Gate Electron PumpEthan Luyt (University of Cape Town)08/07/2026, 11:20Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
In electron transport experiments, a detailed understanding of the electronic states within a system is essential for accurate prediction and modelling of transport behaviour. Single-electron pumps traditionally employ two electrostatic gate potentials to confine individual electrons within a quantum dot and subsequently emit them over an exit barrier defined by the second gate. The emitted...
Go to contribution page -
Jessica Wells, Jessica Wells08/07/2026, 11:20
The real-time tracking of single particles is a vastly under-developed experimental technique but it offers great potential in understanding molecular dynamics. A suitable tracking system comprises three key components, viz., a position sensor, a control system, and an output actuator. The position sensor enables accurate prediction of the particle location. For this component, various...
Go to contribution page -
Michelle Lochner (University of the Western Cape)08/07/2026, 11:20
The next generation of telescopes such as the SKA and the Vera C. Rubin Observatory will produce enormous data sets, far too large for traditional analysis techniques. Machine learning has proven invaluable in handling massive data volumes and automating many tasks traditionally done by human scientists. In this talk, I will explore the use of machine learning for automating the discovery and...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Bako Nyikun Audu (University of the Western Cape)08/07/2026, 11:20Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
Many first-year university students experience difficulties in developing conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills in introductory physics courses. To address these challenges, a structured consultation programme was implemented in the PHY111 course to provide additional academic support outside formal lecture periods. The programme consisted of lunchtime consultation sessions where...
Go to contribution page -
Ms Isabella Maria Goodwin (University of Cape Town)08/07/2026, 11:30
In low Earth orbit (LEO), cosmic ray interactions with spacecraft materials produce a complex secondary radiation field of neutrons, gamma rays, and charged particles, that significantly contributes to radiation exposure of astronauts. The radiation environment remains challenging to characterise due to the physical restrictions associated with measurements onboard spacecraft, and the...
Go to contribution page -
Verlon Etsebeth (University of the Western Cape)08/07/2026, 11:40
The rapid growth of astronomical survey data presents both an opportunity and a challenge: while large datasets increase the chances of discovering rare or unexpected sources, manual inspection quickly becomes impractical at scale. This work presents the development and application of anomaly detection pipelines using Astronomaly, an active learning-based framework, applied to two distinct...
Go to contribution page -
Brenton Munhungewarwa (University of Johannesburg)08/07/2026, 11:40
The High-Luminosity Large Hadron Collider (HL-LHC) will impose increased data rates and operational complexity on the ATLAS Tile Calorimeter (TileCal), necessitating robust, scalable and real-time hardware monitoring solutions. Building on the successful development of an Open Platform Communications Unified Architecture (OPC UA) server for the Tile Preprocessor (TilePPr) modules, this work...
Go to contribution page -
Kgothatso Ntumbe (Universitty of the Witwatersrand(ZA))08/07/2026, 11:40Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
A study of the background composition and modelling in a search for scalar resonances in the diphoton-plus-muon ($\gamma\gamma + 1\mu$) final state is presented, using $164~\mathrm{fb}^{-1}$ of proton-proton collision data collected by the ATLAS detector at $\sqrt{s} = 13.6~\mathrm{TeV}$ during 2022--2024 LHC Run~3 operations. Events are selected by requiring two isolated photons with...
Go to contribution page -
Ben Bert (University of Cape Town)08/07/2026, 11:40Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsOral Presentation
We present high-$p_T$ $R_{AB}$ and $v_2$ from a perturbative quantum chromodynamics-based energy loss model that includes event-by-event hydrodynamic evolution of the medium and small system size corrections to the energy loss. The model is calibrated on, and describes well, large system $R_{AA}$ and $v_2$ experimental data. The extrapolation of our model to $\mathrm{Ne}+\mathrm{Ne}$ and...
Go to contribution page -
443. Interferometric Optical Fibre Based Non-destructive Evaluation of Concrete Compressive StrengthMr Sandisiwe Bangani (Nelson Mandela University)08/07/2026, 11:40
The evolution of mechanical strength in concrete during curing is a vital aspect in assessing structural integrity and quality control of concrete. A Mach-Zehnder Interferometric (MZI) technique was employed for the non-destructive assessment of compressive strength development in unreinforced concrete beams. Low- and high-strength concrete beams and cubes were cast, with a single-mode fibre...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Kamogelo Mashiloane (iThemba LABS)08/07/2026, 11:40Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
This study investigated the fabrication of microstructures in poly(methyl)methacrylate (PMMA) positive resist using proton beam writing (PBW) technique. PBW is an advanced new direct write microfabrication technique capable of writing high aspect ratio (HAR) structures over a variety of previously studied potential resist materials. In this study 3-MeV proton beam was used at fluences between...
Go to contribution page -
Prof. Lynndle Square (Unit for Data Science and Computing (UDSC), North-West University, South Africa)08/07/2026, 11:40Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
Special relativity is one of the topics that many undergraduate students struggle to build intuition for, and previous studies have highlighted persistent conceptual difficulties in this area [1-3]. Difficulties stem largely from the fact that it challenges their classical understanding of space and time. Concepts such as simultaneity, reference frames, time dilation, and Lorentz...
Go to contribution page -
Gerald Maluleke (UNISA)08/07/2026, 11:40Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
A systematic investigation of fusion reactions induced by 16O is carried out. Within the double-folding formalism, the nu-
Go to contribution page
cleus–nucleus interaction potential is constructed using both density-independent nucleon–nucleon interactions (B3Y-Fetal, M3Y-
Paris, and M3Y-Reid) and density-dependent interactions (BDM3Y1, CDM3Y6, and DDM3Y1). The reactions 16O + 70,72,74,76Ge,
16O +... -
Hanwool Koo (University of the Western Cape)08/07/2026, 12:00
Developing automated algorithms for detecting anomalies is increasingly essential for uncovering previously unknown phenomena in astrophysics and cosmology from large volumes of radio spectrograms. To achieve this, we explore machine learning techniques for anomaly detection in the time-frequency dynamic spectra of the radio data. We evaluate our algorithms on simulated SPARKESX: Single-dish...
Go to contribution page -
Nikita Azevedo08/07/2026, 12:00
All-optical diffractive neural networks are designed to perform inference using light. In practice, however, designing these systems typically requires solving a computationally demanding inverse problem on classical hardware, with long training times driven by the large number of optimization parameters. The core computational bottleneck is the repeated simulation of optical wave propagation,...
Go to contribution page -
Coleridge Faraday (University of Cape Town)08/07/2026, 12:00Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsOral Presentation
The quark-gluon plasma (QGP) is a novel state of matter that existed in the first microseconds after the Big Bang and is recreated in heavy-ion collisions at ultrarelativistic energies. Recent observations of QGP-like signatures in small collision systems, including proton + heavy-ion, have raised fundamental questions about the onset of collective behavior. One key signature conspicuously...
Go to contribution page -
Thembalethu Zulu08/07/2026, 12:00
Periodic solar wind streams observed at the Lagrange point L1 provide critical insight into coronal hole structures during solar minima. This study characterises and identifies the coronal sources of periodic solar wind streams measured at L1 during the last three solar minima between cycles 22–23, 23–24, and 24–25. In situ solar wind speed and heliospheric magnetic field data from the...
Go to contribution page -
Njokweni Mbuyiswa (University of the Witwatersrand)08/07/2026, 12:00Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
Motivated by persistent Run-1 and Run-2 anomalies, including an excess near $m_{\gamma\gamma}\approx152\pm1~$GeV with combined ATLAS and CMS significance of 5.5$\sigma$ (5.3$\sigma$ global), this analysis searches for scalar resonances in diphoton final states with leptons using 2022–2024 ATLAS $pp$ data corresponding to 164 fb$^{-1}$ at $\sqrt{s}=13.6~$TeV. To support this search, a dedicated...
Go to contribution page -
Lilian Mutia (Nelson Mandela University)08/07/2026, 12:00
The increasing demand for high-capacity, low latency 5G fronthaul networks has intensified interest in Radio-over-Fibre (RoF) architectures. This works presents an end-to-end simulation of a subcarrier-multiplexed (SCM) intermediate-frequency-over-fibre (IFoF) system. Three subcarriers at 1, 3, and 5 GHz are amplitude modulated and upconverted using a 10 GHz intermediate frequency generated...
Go to contribution page -
Dolamo Eunice08/07/2026, 12:00Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
The global transition toward sustainable energy is currently hindered by the "energy-power gap" in storage technologies, where traditional batteries lack power density and standard capacitors lack energy storage capacity. In the quest of finding solutions, supercapacitors attract more interests due to their fast charge-discharge capability and high-power density, however, low-energy density...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Malefetsane Lenka (MSc Student)08/07/2026, 12:00Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
Cosmic muon trackers using plastic scintillators and Silicon Photomultipliers (SiPMs) are increasingly common in muon tomography applications due to their cost-effectiveness and robustness. In these systems, the high voltage (HV) applied to the SiPM directly influences the overvoltage, which determines key parameters such as gain, photon detection efficiency, and overall detector trigger...
Go to contribution page -
Ms Seaelo Nonky Ramohoeba (School of physical and chemical sciences, Fuculty of Natural and agricultural sciences, North_West University, South Africa)08/07/2026, 12:00Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
"what's in the box?" presents a low cost, enquiry driven laboratory activity designed to enhance the teaching of wave physics through an authentic remote sensing framework.in this practical, students are challenged to identify a hidden object inside a sealed box using only distance measurements obtained from a sensor.
The activity is grounded in real world application such as a radar,...
Go to contribution page -
Ms Magdeline Seabi (Nelson Mandela University)08/07/2026, 12:20Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
Abstract: While the National Senior Certificate (NSC) university exemption rates have increased, in 2025, this upward trend masks a deepening "Distinction Paradox": a decline in high-level mastery in STEM gateway subjects. This study investigates the systemic disconnect between secondary school preparation and university readiness by examining how specific mathematical sub-skills mediate...
Go to contribution page -
Dario Van den Berg (University of the Witwatersrand)08/07/2026, 12:20Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsOral Presentation
We present a detailed study of momentum broadening for high-energy partons traversing the Quark--Gluon Plasma (QGP), extending the Gyulassy Levai Vitev (GLV) formalism to include both all-path-length (APL) and sub-eikonal corrections. Standard GLV calculations rely on the assumptions of large separation distances and large formation times, which are well justified in large nuclear systems but...
Go to contribution page -
Bernard Swanepoel (School of Computer Science and Information Systems, North-West University)08/07/2026, 12:20
The McIntosh sunspot classification system categorises sunspots according to their morphology and size. Because this process is typically performed manually, it is susceptible to labeling errors. In contrast, deep learning methods learn features directly from the data and classify samples based on these learned representations. In this paper, an unsupervised approach to McIntosh sunspot...
Go to contribution page -
MOLATELO MATLEKE08/07/2026, 12:20Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
The pursuit of safe, cost-effective, high-energy-density lithium-ion batteries has intensified interest in LiTi2(PO4)3 (LTP) as a solid electrolyte. Its rigid 3D framework, excellent chemical stability, and high thermal and electrochemical stability offer a vigorous alternative to flammable organic liquids. Conversely, the practical use of LTP is often hindered by...
Go to contribution page -
Damuleli Thivhafuni Edgar (University Of Venda)08/07/2026, 12:20
Fast hydrogen movement with low trapping is important for energy materials. In this study, a graphene-reinforced NbMoTaW alloy was studied using DFT in Materials Studio (CASTEP). Hydrogen sites and energies were calculated in the alloy and near the graphene interface. In the bulk alloy, hydrogen occupies different sites due to the complex structure, leading to some trapping. Near graphene,...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Odwa Tyuka (University of the Western Cape)08/07/2026, 12:20Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
Investigations of weak interactions through Gamow-Teller (GT) β-decays
Go to contribution page
play an important role in neutrino physics, astrophysics and studies of fundamental symmetries [1–3]. Because these decays happen within nuclei, nuclear-effects significantly influence the decay rates. These effects are incorporated in calculated nuclear matrix elements (NMEs), which convey information about the initial... -
Prof. Natalia Litchinitser (Duke University)08/07/2026, 13:40
The rapid development of optical technologies, including optical manipulation and trapping, data processing, sensing and metrology, advanced imaging and microscopy, as well as classical and quantum communications, necessitates the exploration of new degrees of freedom for structuring light in space and time beyond conventional control of amplitude, phase, and polarization. Topological...
Go to contribution page -
Ayanda Zungu08/07/2026, 14:50Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsOral Presentation
Open Quantum Brownian Motion (OQBM) describes the dynamics of a quantum Brownian particle with an additional internal degree of freedom. Building on the microscopic derivation of OQBM with a two-level internal degree of freedom presented by Sinayskiy and Petruccione (2015 Phys. Scr. T165, 014017), we revisit the associated OQBM master equation and derive the equations for the $n$-th moments...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Bako Nyikun Audu (University of the Western Cape)08/07/2026, 14:50Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachPoster Presentation
First-year physics courses often present significant conceptual and problem-solving challenges for students. To support student learning, a structured consultation programme was implemented in the PHY111 course, providing students with opportunities to engage with physics problems in small collaborative groups outside formal lecture sessions. Tutors received targeted training to facilitate the...
Go to contribution page -
Abdool Sattar Cassim (University of Johannesburg), Emmanuel Igumbor (University of Johannesburg), Samuel Temaugee (University of Johannesburg), Timothy Brooks (University of Johannesburg)08/07/2026, 14:50Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
The design of the ATLAS Inner Tracker (ITk), which will replace the Inner Detector of ATLAS at CERN, is nearly complete. Following the long shutdown after Run 3, this crucial component for the High-Luminosity era will be installed. However, reliable environmental monitoring tools are required to measure temperature and humidity, ensuring consistent data quality throughout the lifespan of the...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Washington Mhike (Tshwane University of Technology)08/07/2026, 14:50
In this study, the optical and electrical behaviour of polyaniline was studied through Ultraviolet Visible Spectroscopy (UV-Vis) and Current-Voltage (I-V) measurements. The Current-voltage (I-V) measurements showed that a semiconducting diode was successfully formed between polyaniline and silver metal at 1,5M HCl doping. The saturation current Is and ideality factor η were found to be...
Go to contribution page -
Thapelo Gerry Leboho (University of Witwatersrand)08/07/2026, 14:50Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
Despite the rich physics potential of the intermediate diphoton mass range of 130-200\,GeV, this regime remains one of the least constrained at the ATLAS experiment, motivating dedicated searches in the $\gamma\gamma + 0\ell1\tau$ final state. This work presents a study using Run~3 ATLAS data recorded between 2022 and 2024 at $\sqrt{s} = 13.6$\,TeV, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of...
Go to contribution page -
Johan Joubert (NWU)08/07/2026, 14:50
The nature and structure of the heliospheric magnetic field play an important role in the transport of energetic particles throughout the heliosphere, but due to solar wind turbulence these magnetic field-lines become stochastic. To simulate the meandering of the Parker spiral due to turbulence, the convection-diffusion equation for the field-line density distribution, which describes the...
Go to contribution page -
Joy Mothiba (University of Limpopo)08/07/2026, 14:50Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
Air pollution represents a critical environmental threat, significantly degrading the ambient air quality through the presence of numerous atmospheric pollutants. Metal oxide semiconductor gas sensors are widely employed in gas sensing applications for the detection and analysis of lethal, explosive, and harmful gases. Even so, these metal oxide-based sensors still face a lot of restrictions...
Go to contribution page -
Wagner Tavares Buono (University of the Witwatersrand)08/07/2026, 14:50
We demonstrate that post-deposition annealing provides an effective route to spectrally engineer the nonlinear optical response of indium tin oxide (ITO) thin films, with a pronounced enhancement at technologically relevant telecommunication wavelengths. Annealing-induced modifications to the epsilon‑near‑zero (ENZ) wavelength enable controlled spectral shifting of the material’s nonlinear...
Go to contribution page -
Sello Motsoane08/07/2026, 15:10
The numerical modeling of energetic particle transport in turbulent astrophysical plasmas, governed by
Go to contribution page
Fokker-Planck equations, is a cornerstone of modern space physics. Methods based on Stochastic Differential
Equations (SDEs) have gained popularity over traditional finite-difference schemes due to their unconditional
stability and suitability for parallel computing. The accuracy and... -
Simon Carthew (University of Cape Town)08/07/2026, 15:10
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is a medical imaging modality that measures the relative activity of physiological processes within a patient. It is an expensive imaging modality that is primarily limited to high income countries. Our group is developing a low-cost PET detector that would improve access to PET in low- to middle-income countries. The design process is an incremental approach...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Hendrik Jacobus van Heerden (University of the Free State)08/07/2026, 15:10Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
We present a comparative study of the photoelectric effect experiment aimed at enhancing conceptual understanding in undergraduate physics laboratories. A traditional mercury (Hg) lamp with optical filters is evaluated alongside a modified setup using multiple light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as discrete wavelength sources. In addition, two measurement approaches—stopping potential and direct...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Tal Leshem08/07/2026, 15:10Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsOral Presentation
We review the Asymptotic Iteration Method (AIM) as a computational framework for determining the quasinormal mode (QNM) spectra of black hole spacetimes, with particular emphasis on its regimes of applicability and failure. We identify scenarios in which AIM does not yield accurate or reliable eigenvalues and analyze the underlying causes of these breakdowns. To address these limitations, we...
Go to contribution page -
Thendo Emmanuel Nemakhavhani (UNIVERSITY OF JOHANNESBURG)08/07/2026, 15:10Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
The Mineral Positron Emission Tomography (MinPET) technology enables a three-dimensional imaging of diamonds within a kimberlite host rock by reconstructing coincidence 511 keV gamma rays from $^{11}$C. These are produced via the $^{12}$C($\gamma$, n)$^{11}$C bremsstrahlung reaction during irradiation. However, the activation process also induces radioactivity in the surrounding kimberlite...
Go to contribution page -
Mr sinegugu Shezi08/07/2026, 15:10Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
CaxZn1-xFe2O4 (x=0.0-1.0) fine particles with particle size ranging from 8nm to 13 nm were investigated by XRD, TEM, FTIR, and electron spin resonance measurements. XRD spectra revealed (220), (311), (400), (420), (511), and (440) crystal planes characteristics of cubic spinel phase with no impurity peaks. A slight reduction in particle size with the increasing Ca2+ ion concentration observed....
Go to contribution page -
08/07/2026, 15:10
-
Phuti Rapheeha (University of the Witwatersrand)08/07/2026, 15:10Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
Motivated by multi-lepton anomalies reported in the literature, which suggest the possible existence of a new scalar resonance with a mass around 150~$\pm$~2 GeV, this analysis searches for resonances decaying into two photons produced in association with leptons. Phenomenological studies indicate a significant excess in the diphoton spectrum at $152\pm 2$ GeV, as well as deviations in final...
Go to contribution page -
Nkosiphendule Njara08/07/2026, 15:30Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
High-energy physics (HEP) experiments operate in data-intensive environments characterised by high event rates, complex detector systems, and the need to extract rare signals from significant backgrounds. This has led to the development of well-established methodologies for data acquisition, event selection, statistical inference, and large-scale data processing. In this work, we explore the...
Go to contribution page -
Vuyolwethu Mavityo (UWC)08/07/2026, 15:30Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
This study responds to growing anecdotal and media reports that Physical Sciences departments in some schools within the Western Cape Education Department are closing. One commonly cited explanation is the declining number of Grade 9 Natural Sciences learners who choose Physical Sciences in the Further Education and Training (FET) phase of secondary schooling. The primary aim of this research...
Go to contribution page -
Marandela Mulalo Valencia08/07/2026, 15:30Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsOral Presentation
Energy is the core of any developing or developed country. For countries with their economy relying heavily on industries, more energy is consumed, and as a result, they contribute more to global warming and climate change. South Africa, rich in renewable energy potential, is experiencing a major shift as it works to incorporate clean energy sources into its overall power supply to meet the...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Sifiso Mngonyama (University of the Western Cape)08/07/2026, 15:30Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
$\beta$-decay studies are important for searches for fundamental physics beyond the Standard Model [1, 2]. In particular, $\beta$-decay transition rates involve several crucial model-dependent variables such as nuclear matrix elements (NMEs), coupling constants, phase-space factors, etc, which may be calculated and compared with experiments. Of particular interest are NMEs and their relation...
Go to contribution page -
Josiah De Klerk (University of Cape Town)08/07/2026, 15:30
Due to highly conformal treatment, reduced late and acute side and minimized risk of damaging healthy tissue, proton therapy has become a preferred form of radiation treatment over traditional photon and electron therapies. However, there are no means to directly verify proton depth range within the patient during treatment. One possible solution is the use of Prompt Gamma imaging (PGI), which...
Go to contribution page -
THABO MAHLATJI (NWU Student)08/07/2026, 15:30
The rigidity spectra of cosmic ray antiprotons and protons have been measured simultaneously, averaged over a Bartel rotation (~27 days), by AMS-02 detector between May 2011 and June 2022. These precise observations provide a more powerful context to study charge-sign-dependent modulation in the A < 0 magnetic cycle, through the period covering the solar magnetic field reversal, and in the A >...
Go to contribution page -
Bongani Ngobe (MINTEK and Wits University)08/07/2026, 15:30Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
TiRu forms a B2 (CsCl-type) structure at high temperature, which typically transforms to lower-symmetry phases upon cooling; however, in TiRu, B2 remains stable down to room temperature. This study investigates the effect of Ni substitution on the electronic structure and lattice dynamic stability of the B2 Ti50Ru50 phase using first-principles calculations within the supercell (SC) approach....
Go to contribution page -
Joyful Elma Mdhluli (IAU Office of Astronomy for Development)08/07/2026, 15:50Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
Astrotourism has emerged as an innovative form of sustainable tourism at the intersection of science engagement, environmental stewardship, and experiential learning. While often associated with stargazing, its broader value lies in translating scientific knowledge into accessible public experiences and fostering appreciation for dark and quiet sky environments.
Beyond its appeal to...
Go to contribution page -
Ms Khanyisile Nkuna (Materials Physics Research Institute (MPRI), School of Physics, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2000, South Africa)08/07/2026, 15:50Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
Khanyisile Nkuna1*, Rudolph Erasmus1, Teboho Mokhena2 and Katekani Shingange1
1Materials Physics Research Institute (MPRI), School of Physics, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2000, South Africa
2Mintek Nanotechnology Innovation Centre, Randburg 2194, South Africa
Correspondence: 2318077@students.wits.ac.zaAbstract :
Go to contribution page
Chemiresistive gas sensors are widely used for gas... -
BUSISIWE PERTUNIA MBATHA (University of Zululand)08/07/2026, 15:50
This study examines the presence of trace elements in fertilizers and their potential implications for food contamination and public health risks. Both organic fertilizers (including chicken droppings, cow dung processed by earthworms, goat manure, sheep manure, and raw cow dung) and inorganic fertilizers (NH₄NO₃, 28% N, and NPK containing 0.5% Zn) were collected from the Zululand region of...
Go to contribution page -
Aimee Dumont08/07/2026, 15:50
Cosmic-ray neutron sensing (CRNS) is an accurate and non-invasive method that measures soil moisture estimates. This allows for continuous monitoring of soil moisture estimations at large-scale measurements, which is important for optimising irrigation and conserving water resources in the agricultural sector. It is based on the detection of fast (epithermal) neutrons, which are produced from...
Go to contribution page -
Mishka Naicker (University of KwaZulu-Natal)08/07/2026, 15:50Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsOral Presentation
This work investigates a hybrid quantum–classical enhancement of the Metropolis–Hastings algorithm within a variational Monte Carlo framework. Using a single-thread Monte Carlo approach, we estimate the ground-state energy of a small Hamiltonian system by computing the dominant eigenvalue of a symmetric $3\times3$ matrix as a proof of concept.
A quantum-enhanced acceptance mechanism,...
Go to contribution page -
Bekithemba Sibanda (National University of Science and Technology)08/07/2026, 16:20
The standard ΛCDM model of cosmology, while remarkably successful, faces a critical challenge:
Go to contribution page
the > 5σ discrepancy between local and early-Universe measurements of the Hubble constant
(H0)—the Hubble Tension. This persistent anomaly suggests that our assumption of immutable
fundamental constants (the fine-structure constant α, gravitational constant G, and speed of light c)
may require... -
THATO MAJA08/07/2026, 16:20
Measurements of cosmic ray isotope fluxes by spacecraft missions, such as
Go to contribution page
PAMELA, have generated interest in the study of solar modulation over changing
solar activity. These exceptional measurements provide an opportunity for
improved numerical modeling of the solar modulation of galactic cosmic rays
across a wide range of rigidity at Earth. In this study, a three-dimensional drift
model... -
Anelisiwe Gqumani (Nelson Mandela University)08/07/2026, 16:20
The magnetostrictive performance of Fe-Ga alloys is strongly governed by atomic ordering and metastable phase stability, yet the role of rare-earth microalloying under non-equilibrium processing remains poorly understood. This study investigates the effect of a minor Tb addition (0.1 at.%) and rapid water quenching on the phase stability and microstructure of Fe-26Ga and Fe-27Ga alloys using...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Mashilo Matlala (University of Limpopo)08/07/2026, 16:20
FePt alloy, particularly in its ordered L10 phase is widely recognized as a promising candidate for advanced magnetic recording applications due to its exceptional magnetic anisotropy and thermal stability. However, its practical implementation is limited by the several challenges, including high ordering temperature and high material cost due to Pt content. In this study, ab initio study...
Go to contribution page -
Nkosana Mkhatshwa08/07/2026, 16:20
Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) have emerged as promising low-cost alternatives to conventional photovoltaic technologies, in which device efficiency is largely determined by interactions between dye molecules and semiconductor surfaces. In this study, the adsorption behavior of a croconate dye on the brookite TiO₂ (210) surface was investigated using density functional theory (DFT) to...
Go to contribution page -
Kagiso Mashishi (University of Limpopo)08/07/2026, 16:20
Mooihoekite (Cu₉Fe₉S₁₆) is a copper–iron sulfide with a tetragonal, metal-rich structure derived from chalcopyrite, commonly intergrown with other sulfides such as haycockite and pentlandite in complex ore deposits. Despite its relevance in flotation systems, its flotation behavior remains poorly understood, limiting the optimization of separation processes that rely on mineral-specific...
Go to contribution page -
Ivyn Ndhlovu (University of Limpopo)08/07/2026, 16:20
The machine-learned force field (MLFF) method embedded within ab-initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) in VASP was employed to investigate the bulk, surface and collector’s adsorption properties on the PtAs₂ (100) surface at 300K. This approach was used to gain deeper insight into the physicochemical behaviour of the sperrylite mineral (PtAs₂). AIMD-MLFF bulk training gave a lattice parameter of...
Go to contribution page -
Tamera Kassie (SARAO, UWC)08/07/2026, 16:20
MeerKLASS is a single dish HI intensity mapping survey of the MeerKAT Telescope. Probing the 21 cm signal is coupled with challenges from foregrounds and radio frequency interferences (RFI) which contaminates the data, and in turn our cosmological signal. The MeerKLASS collaboration has produced a detection of the HI cosmological signal using cross-correlations with galaxy surveys. However,...
Go to contribution page -
Unathi Tshabalala08/07/2026, 16:20
Blueberry galaxies are a class of low-mass, low-metallicity, and extremely compact starbursts, considered local analogues to high-redshift star-forming galaxies. This study investigates the hypothesis that a subset of these systems hosts Active Galactic Nuclei (AGN). Photometric light curves for an initial sample of 20 Blueberry galaxies were extracted from Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last...
Go to contribution page -
Vhuhwavho Khomunala (University of Venda)08/07/2026, 16:20
Early exposure to science is critical for developing curiosity, problem-solving skills, and foundational cognitive abilities in young children. However, many Early Childhood Development (ECD) practitioners in South Africa lack the training, confidence, and resources to effectively integrate science into daily teaching practices. This study evaluates the impact of the South African Institute of...
Go to contribution page -
Sibongile Majola08/07/2026, 16:20
This study addresses the inefficiencies of existing Fourier analysis software for astronomical time-series data, such as Period04 and FAMIAS, which typically require file-by-file processing. The aim was to develop a scalable and automated solution for batch processing large datasets in order to save time and improve reproducibility. To achieve this, a Python-based Fourier analysis pipeline was...
Go to contribution page -
Sibongile Majola08/07/2026, 16:20
This study addresses the inefficiencies of existing Fourier analysis software for astronomical time-series data, such as Period04 and FAMIAS, which typically require file-by-file processing. The aim was to develop a scalable and automated solution for batch processing large datasets in order to save time and improve reproducibility. To achieve this, a Python-based Fourier analysis pipeline was...
Go to contribution page -
Kirsten Elliott (University of Western Cape)08/07/2026, 16:20
Self-supervised learning offers a powerful way to analyse large astronomical image datasets without relying on labelled training samples. Mohale & Lochner (2024) demonstrated this by fine-tuning a ResNet-18 model with the Bootstrap Your Own Latent (BYOL) framework to produce 512-dimensional feature representations for galaxies in the Dark Energy Camera Legacy Survey (DECaLS) survey. After...
Go to contribution page -
Ruhann Steyn (Centre for Space Research, North-West University)08/07/2026, 16:20
The solar telescope observatory at the North-West University has been operating since 2022 as a facility for routine ground-based solar observations in South Africa. A new development is the establishment of a public database through which these observations are made available in support of both education and scientific research. The resulting data products are intended to provide users with...
Go to contribution page -
SEKHONA TOLE (university of the western cape)08/07/2026, 16:20
The Square Kilometre Array (SKA), set to be the largest radio telescope ever constructed, is currently under development in South Africa(mid-frequency array) and Australia(low-frequency array). As a key precursor instrument, South Africa’s MeerKAT radio telescope provides unprecedented sensitivity and resolution at L-band frequencies. This study utilises early reduced MeerKAT observations...
Go to contribution page -
Edwine Matlou (University of Limpopo)08/07/2026, 16:20
Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) currently dominate the rechargeable battery market, yet they face inherent limitations including low energy density (100-200 Wh/kg), high production costs, supply chain vulnerabilities, and safety concerns arising from flammable lithium and organic electrolytes. Metal-air batteries (MABs) have emerged as a high-capacity alternative, offering theoretical energy...
Go to contribution page -
Prof. Evans Benecha (University of South Africa)08/07/2026, 16:20
Dilute magnetic semiconductors (DMSs) offer a promising route to novel hybrid electronic devices that can integrate logic processing, communication, and data storage into a single integrated circuit (IC). Two-dimensional (2D) transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) are particularly appealing for DMS applications due to their excellent spin relaxation times and long spin diffusion lengths....
Go to contribution page -
Philani Kunene (University of Zululand)08/07/2026, 16:20
Lanthanum- and samarium-based perovskites with the general formula ABO₃ were synthesized using the hydrothermal method. Structural characterization by X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the formation of pure-phase LaFeO₃ and SmFeO₃, with crystallite sizes increasing from 10 nm to 19 nm. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) further verified the perovskite structure, revealing...
Go to contribution page -
TUMI KEVIN MGAGA (UNIVERSITY OF THE FREE-STATE)08/07/2026, 16:20
Effective air quality monitoring in mining environments remains challenging due to limited access to reliable, accurate, and fast gas-sensing technologies. Semiconductor metal oxide gas sensors represent a promising alternative owing to their simple design, robustness, and high sensitivity. This study investigates the synthesis, structural, and morphological characterization, and gas sensing...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Neelam Saghir (University of South Africa)08/07/2026, 16:20
This study presents a first-principles investigation of germanium (Ge)-doped CsSnI₃ perovskites as promising candidates for lead-free photovoltaic applications. With increasing demand for environmentally friendly and high-efficiency solar materials, all-inorganic tin-based perovskites have emerged as viable alternatives to toxic lead-based systems, though their practical implementation is...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Kamogelo Sebolai (University of Johannesburg)08/07/2026, 16:20
Abstract
Go to contribution page
Perovskites exhibit a remarkable array of optoelectronic properties that are vital for advancing photovoltaic designs. In-depth investigations into the electronic and optical characteristics of all-inorganic CsGeBr3 have been conducted using density functional theory with the PBE exchange-correlation functional. To obtain precise and realistic bandgap values, the HSE06 hybrid... -
Ms Thandi Mulaudzi08/07/2026, 16:20
The escalating demand for efficient, reliable, and sustainable energy storage has catalysed intensive research into advanced cathode materials for next-generation of lithium-ion batteries. Among these cathode materials, LiMn1.5Ni0.5O4 (LMNO) has emerged as a frontrunner due to its high operating voltage (~4.9 V), cost-effective composition, and advantageous 3-D lithium diffusion pathways....
Go to contribution page -
Goratamang Ann Gaedie (North-West University)08/07/2026, 16:20
The Lambda Cold Dark Matter (ΛCDM) model is a well-known cosmological model that has been used to investigate the acceleration of the universe. In our earlier study, we introduced a modified scale factor (Aydiner et al., 2022) to examine the universe’s accelerating expansion without relying on the conventional dark energy framework of the lambda-cold-dark matter model. In order to test the...
Go to contribution page -
Thulo Letsele08/07/2026, 16:20
In spider pulsar binaries, the energetic pulsar wind ablates the companion star, producing dense intrabinary plasma that leads to radio eclipses and complex propagation effects impacting the observed pulsar signal. Previous studies have shown that the properties of these eclipses can constrain the geometry and dynamics of the intrabinary shock formed by the interaction between the pulsar wind...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Assane Talla (Nelson Mandela University)08/07/2026, 16:20
Gallium arsenide (GaAs) remains a key material for optoelectronic and high-speed electronic applications, including laser diodes, infrared light-emitting diodes, solar cells, and high-frequency switching devices. In this study, electrically active defects in Si-doped n-type GaAs are investigated using conventional Deep Level Transient Spectroscopy (DLTS), Laplace DLTS, and Admittance...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Kamogelo Sebolai (University of Johannesburg)08/07/2026, 16:20
Abstract
Go to contribution page
The research developments of innovative photovoltaic designs that not only achieve high efficiency but also remain affordable have grown significantly in recent years. In particular, the eco-friendly perovskite-based solar models show incredible promise for a sustainable energy future. Perovskites, due to their unique properties such as tunable energy bandgap, long carrier diffusion... -
Ms Ayanda Mnikathi08/07/2026, 16:20
The kinematic Sunyaev-Zel’dovich (kSZ) effect comes from the Doppler shift of Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) photons scattered by moving galaxy clusters. It offers a strong way to study the large-scale velocity field and test cosmological models. In this thesis, we aim to detect the kSZ signal by using the pairwise momentum estimator on data from the Atacama Cosmology Telescope Polarimeter...
Go to contribution page -
Ms Angela Mmasefako Maboa (University of Limpopo)08/07/2026, 16:20
Angela Maboa1, Keletso Monareng1, Petros Ntoahae1 and Rapela Maphanga2
1Department of Physics, University of Limpopo, Private bag X 1106, Sovenga, 0727, Polokwane, South Afri-ca
Go to contribution page
2Renewable and Sustainable Energy Research Centre, Sol Plaatje University, Private Bag X 5008, Kimberly, 8300, South Africa
3 National Institute for Theoretical and Computational Sciences, NITheCS, Gauteng, 2000,... -
Dr NEANI TSHILANDE (University of Venda)08/07/2026, 16:20
Carbazole-based self-assembled monolayers (SAMs), such as CbzNaph, have attracted interest for their hole-selective performance in inverted perovskite solar cells [1,2]. This is attributed to their large dipole moments and strong π–π stacking interactions. Despite their improved performance, they still face long-term stability challenges due to their susceptibility to solvent-induced...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Tharollo Malepe (University of Limpopo)08/07/2026, 16:20
Molecular dynamics simulations were employed to investigate the effect of Li+ transport in Co- and Ni-doped spinel nanostructures. LiMn2-xMxO4 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.08, M=Co and Ni) spinel nanostructures were successfully generated with the simulated amorphization and recrystallization. The spinel structure, which is a promising cathode material for lithium-ion batteries due to its cost-effectiveness,...
Go to contribution page -
Asanda Lakaje (University of the Free State)08/07/2026, 16:20
Double perovskites are known for their wide, indirect band gaps. However, systematic investigations into the effect of annealing temperature on the coupled structural evolution, morphology, and defect-related optical properties of undoped La₂ZnTiO₆ remain limited. Therefore, this study investigates the effect of annealing temperature on the structural, morphological, and optical properties of...
Go to contribution page -
Tshidi Mogashoa (University of Limpopo)08/07/2026, 16:20
Lithium-ion batteries are a crucial technology for energy storage and cathode materials play a key role in their performance. Core-shell architectures are emerging as an effective strategy to address structural degradation and phase instability in lithium-rich cathodes such as Li2MnO3. By stabilising interfaces, these heterostructures enable improved electrochemical performance and enhanced...
Go to contribution page -
Prof. Pontsho Mbule (University of South Africa)08/07/2026, 16:20
NaYF4 nanoparticles were synthesized using a solution combustion method at 500 °C and subsequently annealed at 700 °C to investigate the effect of thermal treatment on their structural, optical, and thermoluminescent properties for dosimetric application. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the coexistence of cubic and hexagonal phases in both samples, while annealing led to enhanced...
Go to contribution page -
Vuyolwethu Mhlebi (University of Zululand)08/07/2026, 16:20
ABSTRACT
Go to contribution page
Non-stoichiometric spinel ferrites are attracting increasing interest for gas sensing because their electrical and surface properties can be altered through composition control. In this work, ZnxFe₂O₄ NPs with varying zinc content (0.90, 0.95, 1.00, 1.05) were synthesised through the microwave-assisted coprecipitation method and investigated for the detection of toxic and flammable... -
Anele Madlala (Iyunivesiti Walter Sisulu)08/07/2026, 16:20
Ce3+ and Dy3+ ion substituted cobalt and nickel ferrites (CoCexDyxFe2-2xO4, NiCexDyxFe2-2xO4 and CoCexFe2-xO4 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.05)) with fine particles (9 ≤ D ≤16 nm) were synthesized by glycol-thermal method. XRD analysis of samples investigated confirmed single phase cubic spinel structure with no impurity peaks. Broad electron spin resonance (ESR) signals for cobalt substituted compounds reveal...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Tsietsi Rex Mooka (University of Limpopo)08/07/2026, 16:20
Indium (II) selenide is a layered material with useful properties for electronics, solar cells, and other modern technologies. It is made up of thin sheets of atoms that are held together by weak forces, and it also belongs to group of metal chalcogenides. The study is about the atomic structure and electronic properties of InSe using density functional theory (DFT). Looking at the structural...
Go to contribution page -
Bevan Petersen (University of the Western Cape)08/07/2026, 16:20
We will present results of an on-going study of some of the auxiliary detections made in MeerKAT observations to constrain Proto galaxy-clusters. The observations are estimated to constitute more than 5000 radio sources in each of the three fields that were observed. This work will identify and conduct an analysis of the Elongated Radio Galaxies detected in one of the three observed fields of...
Go to contribution page -
Mekuanint Kifle Hailemariam (University of the Western Cape)08/07/2026, 16:20
Systematic effects are a major obstacle in 21 cm radio interferometry,
where faint cosmological signals are obscured by instrumental and
observational contamination. This work presents a set of diagnostic
methods designed to detect and characterize temporal systematics in
interferometric data from the Hydrogen Epoch of Reionization Array
(HERA).We begin with the Temporal Discontinuity...
Go to contribution page -
Ntsako Jason Mathebula (University of the Free State)08/07/2026, 16:20
Air pollution remains one of the world's major challenges today. The continuous release of gases such as H₂S, CO, and NOx. The pollutants contribute to climate change, global warming, and various health-related diseases. Gas sensing technology has therefore emerged as an effective approach for monitoring and controlling air pollution. Two-dimensional (2D) layered materials, particularly MoS2,...
Go to contribution page -
Kholofelo Mohloishane Seloane (University of the Free State, Physics Department)08/07/2026, 16:20
The development of highly selective and low-temperature gas sensors remains an imperative challenge for air quality monitoring and industrial safety. The toxicity and flammability of toluene, along with its associated risks to human health, render early detection and real-time monitoring essential. This study explores the novel Cr2O3-core@SnO2-shell heterostructures functionalized with silver...
Go to contribution page -
MOGAU KGASAGO (UNIVERSITY OF LIMPOPO)08/07/2026, 16:20
Spinel LiMn2O4 is a promising cathode material for lithium-ion batteries due to its low cost and three-dimensional lithium diffusion pathways. However, its application is limited by irreversible capacity loss and structural degradation associated with manganese migration, which are linked to structural instability and disrupted lithium transport. Prelithiation compensates for initial lithium...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Mawisha Jan Mafifi (University of Pretoria)08/07/2026, 16:20
In the ever-evolving world of renewable energy, metallurgy, medicine, jewellery, and fuel cells, platinum (Pt) remains a key mineral in these industries. Nonetheless, Pt in its purest shape is relatively soft, thus vulnerable to surface scratching, a distress in the jewellery sector. As such, alloying Pt to enhance its mechanical integrity is crucial for improving its scratching resistance....
Go to contribution page -
Perseverence khosa08/07/2026, 16:20
In recent years, there has been substantial progress in the development of nanomaterials for gas sensing applications. One of the key challenges in this field lies in selecting an appropriate sensing layer, along with optimising the device structure, fabrication method, and morphology to fully exploit the sensing capabilities of the material. This work presents the synthesis of pristine V₂O₅,...
Go to contribution page -
Sefako John Mofokeng (University of South Africa)08/07/2026, 16:20
Rare‑earth‑doped phosphor nanomaterials have attracted significant research interest due to their efficient upconversion luminescence, whereby infrared radiation is converted into visible emission. Such materials are promising for a wide range of applications, including solid‑state lighting, optical converters, biosensors, and data storage technologies. In this study, the structural and...
Go to contribution page -
Nico Snyman08/07/2026, 16:20
The Low Earth Orbit (LEO) environment presents a tough challenge for materials, exposing them to atomic oxygen, ultraviolet radiation, thermal cycling, and high vacuum conditions. These harsh conditions can wear down traditional spacecraft material (Finckenor, 2018; Grossman & Gouzman, 2003). As a result, there has been a growing interest in lightweight, functional alternatives, especially...
Go to contribution page -
Modiri Mokaila (North West University)08/07/2026, 16:20
The ionosphere is a dynamic, in-homogeneous, and electrically conductive plasma formed through the interaction of solar extreme ultraviolet (EUV) and X-ray radiation with the Earth’s upper atmosphere at altitudes of approximately 50–1000 km. Variations in ionization levels within this region significantly influence radio wave propagation and satellite-based communication systems. In this study...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Nhlamulo Khosa (Green Technology Confucius Institute, University of Venda)08/07/2026, 16:20
The growing demand for sustainable energy solutions has accelerated the deployment of renewable energy infrastructure across Africa, particularly wind and solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. However, comprehensive and accessible datasets describing the spatial distribution and generation capacity of such infrastructure remain limited. This study addresses this gap by leveraging openly available...
Go to contribution page -
Mondli Ntshangase (University of Zululand)08/07/2026, 16:20
Cobalt oxide (Co₃O₄) nanostructures co-doped with 5 wt%, 10 wt%, and 15 wt% NiZn were synthesized via the hydrothermal method. Structural analysis using X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the formation of a pure spinel phase without any secondary peaks. The crystallite size increased from 19 nm to 48 nm with increasing dopant concentration. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy...
Go to contribution page -
Aimee Dumont08/07/2026, 16:20
Soil moisture is water content held within the pore spaces between the soil particles. It is a pivotal variable as it plays a major role in climate change processes, which is widely used in agriculture.
Go to contribution page
Soil moisture is traditionally measured with sensors that are invasive, labour-intensive, and subject to uncertainties. This study uses a non-invasive Boron trifluoride (BF$_3$) Cosmic-ray... -
Edwin Mapasha (University of Pretoria)08/07/2026, 16:20
Two-dimensional Janus materials, characterized by their asymmetric surface composition, offer unique opportunities for tailoring electronic and mechanical properties. Among these, the hypothetical ZrSC monolayer, composed of zirconium sandwiched between sulfur and carbon layers, represents an underexplored system with the potential to merge the mechanical durability of carbides with the...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Chewe Fwalo (University of South Africa)08/07/2026, 16:20
Greenhouse gas emissions, such as carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide, released during the combustion of fossil fuels, have been strongly linked to climate change effects, including prolonged droughts, floods, and intense heat waves, that can lead to diseases such as stroke and cardiovascular disorders. This connection has driven extensive research into toxic gas sensing and capturing, aiming to...
Go to contribution page -
RAMAABELE BRIDGET MOKGABUDI (UNIVERSITY OF LIMPOPO)08/07/2026, 16:20
Abstract:
Go to contribution page
The rising demand for compact, high-performance batteries, driven by the rapid expansion of portable electronics, has been effectively met by the rise of lithium-ion battery (LIB) technology. As the most viable energy storage solution to date, LIBs have become the cornerstone of the modern energy industry, powering everything from everyday consumer gadgets to the latest electric... -
Samson Singo (University of Limpopo)08/07/2026, 16:20
The development of high-capacity electrode materials is essential for enhancing the energy density of lithium-ion batteries. Siligraphene (SiC2), inspired by silicon’s high theoretical capacity, has emerged as a promising anode material due to its high specific capacity and low open-circuit voltage. however, its performance is limited by poor mechanical stiffness. This study examines fluorine...
Go to contribution page -
Dario Van den Berg (University of the Witwatersrand)08/07/2026, 16:20
Topological twisting provides a powerful framework for constructing lattice formulations of supersymmetric gauge theories. In three dimensions, a twisted version of ${\cal N} = 4$ super Yang--Mills theory can be discretized so that one nilpotent scalar supersymmetry is preserved exactly at nonzero lattice spacing. The remaining seven supersymmetries are broken by lattice artifacts of ${\cal...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Trevor Nyambe (Centre for Space Research, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa)08/07/2026, 16:20
Young neutron stars power bright multi-wavelength emission and drive energetic pulsar wind nebulae (PWNe). Accurate interpretation of these signals depends on the magnetic inclination ($\alpha$) and viewing angle ($\zeta$); however, independent observables often yield conflicting geometric constraints. To investigate these discrepancies, we analysed a sample of eight high-spin-down pulsars...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Amos Nhlapo (Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University)08/07/2026, 16:20
The cobalt nanoferrite with crystallite of 12.89nm was successfully synthesized using the hydrothermal method. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) and the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the formation spinel structure. The obtained lattice parameter was 8.36 Å while the X-ray densities was 5.021 g/cm³. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed spherically shaped and...
Go to contribution page -
Liam Harris (University of the Witwatersrand)08/07/2026, 16:20
The Quark-Gluon Plasma (QGP) is an exotic state of matter where fundamental quarks and gluons are decoupled and the result is a medium of strongly-interacting matter. This state of matter is only achievable under extreme conditions, such as the results of colliding nuclei in a particle collider such as those performed at the Large Hadron Collider and Brookhaven National Laboratory. Trajectum...
Go to contribution page -
Khethiwe Cele (Rare Earth-Based Oxides and Nano Group, Department of Physics, University of Johannesburg, Cnr Kingsway Avenue and University Road, Auckland Park 2006, South Africa)08/07/2026, 16:20
Crystalline Sm₂Ni₂O₅ (SNONPs) nanoparticles were synthesized via co-precipitation and sol–gel methods, while Ce₂Ni₂O₅ (CNONPs) and Ce₂Co₂O₅ (CCONPs) were prepared using a sol–gel route to investigate the effect of A-site (Sm, Ce) and B-site (Ni, Co) cation substitution on their structural, morphological, thermodynamic, and magnetic properties. XRD analysis confirmed that SNONPs crystallize in...
Go to contribution page -
Dineo Maepa (University of Limpopo)08/07/2026, 16:20
FeCo alloys, a class of intermetallic soft magnetic materials, have attracted considerable interest due to their exceptional magnetic performance, including high saturation magnetisation (~2.4 T) and elevated Curie temperatures (920–985 °C). Despite these advantages, their practical application is limited by the high cost of Co and poor ductility, particularly at low temperatures. Alloying...
Go to contribution page -
Terry Mark Tukamusaba08/07/2026, 16:20
ABSTRACT
Go to contribution page
Inthemid-1970’s,a 160-min periodic signal was detected coming from the Sun and the discoverers interpreted this as a gravity-
mode (g-mode) oscillation.
That is to say,they supposed this signal to be the vibration of the Solar surface. Similar signals where
also detected in a number of extraterrestrial sources which include Active Galactic Nuclei (AGN). Later re-analysis rebutted... -
TSHEPO RONALDO MAAKA (UNIVERSITY OF LIMPOPO)08/07/2026, 16:20
This study adopted the density functional theory (DFT) and ab-initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) modelling technique imbedded within the Vienna ab-initio simulation package (VASP). The machine learned force field (MLFF) was utilised for robustness of the AIMD simulations. These methods were adopted in the current study to understand the behaviour of platinum group minerals (PGMs) such as PtBiTe...
Go to contribution page -
Melokuhle Hadebe08/07/2026, 16:20
Abstract
Go to contribution page
The mechanical and electronic properties of Gold (Au), silver (Ag) and aluminium (Al) are systematically investigated using first principle calculations that on density functional theory (DFT). Geometry optimization confirms that all three metals crystallize in face-cantered cubic (FCC) structure and their lattice parameters show agreement with experimental data. The calculated... -
Mariah Madie (University Of Limpopo)08/07/2026, 16:20
This study employed ab-initio density functional theory (DFT) with Grimme’s D3 dispersion correction to investigate the bulk and surface properties of hematite. The Hubbard U parameters 5.0 eV was adopted which gave a band gap of 2.55 eV and lattice parameters of a = b = 5.045 Å and c = 13.774 Å, which were in good agreement with experimental values (band gap: 1.9–2.6 eV; lattice parameters: a...
Go to contribution page -
Nhlakanipho Mantengu (University of Zululand)08/07/2026, 16:20
In nuclear fuels, thin-film diffusion barriers are essential for preventing the release of radioactive fission products (FPs). Silicon carbide (SiC), which serves as the primary diffusion barrier layer, is exposed to various FPs along with helium (He) generated as a result of alpha decay of actinide elements and neutronic transmutation. Therefore, this study investigates the role of He in the...
Go to contribution page -
Pabalelo Malatjie (University Of Limpopo)08/07/2026, 16:20
ABSTRACT
Currently, rising electric energy demand and depleting raw materials are increasing day by day, calling for alternative, clean energy storage equipment. Lithium–air batteries are considered among the most promising energy storage technologies due to their exceptionally high energy density (1086 Wh/kg) and large specific capacity (3842 mAh/g). However, they face a key practical...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Mordecai Mashamaite (University of Limpopo)08/07/2026, 16:20
The Ti₄Nb₂Pt₂ alloys on Pt-rich sites was identified as the most stable configuration from universal cluster expansion derived by binary phase diagram. The supercell approach, as implemented in VASP, was employed to create a supercell containing approximately 64 atoms. In addition, the Ti₄Nb₂Pt₂ alloys was studied by investigating the structural, thermodynamic and mechanical properties using...
Go to contribution page -
Tahleho Mofokeng (University of The Free State)08/07/2026, 16:20
This study aims to enhance the photoluminescence properties of ZnO–SnO₂ heterostructures (ZS-H) through Pr³⁺ doping at different concentrations for potential use in optoelectronic coatings. The main challenges in optoelectronic coatings are achieving multifunctionality, as improving electrical conductivity often reduces optical transparency and flexibility, while defects and infrared...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Isaac Gwato Chitete08/07/2026, 16:20
In this research project, the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI)
Go to contribution page
galaxy cluster bulk velocity will be measured using kinematic Sunyaev-Zeldovich(kSZ) signals from the Atacama Cosmology Telescope Polarimeter
(ACTPol)Data Release 4. The kSZ signal will be detected using 1-point statistics, then developing and applying aperture photometry on the BOSS North and Deep 56 regions of ACTPol... -
Sindiswa Nhlapo08/07/2026, 16:20
Open quantum Brownian motion (OQBM) was introduced by Bauer et al. [1,2] as a special scaling limit of discrete-time open quantum walks (OQWs) [3,4], establishing a new mathematical framework for quantum Brownian motion. In this setting, the dynamics of the Brownian particle depend not only on dissipative interactions with a thermal bath but also on the state of the internal quantum degree...
Go to contribution page -
Monyeseroba Immaculate (University of Limpopo)08/07/2026, 16:20
Pyrite-type transition-metal sulphides have attracted increasing scientific interest due to their applications in catalysis, environmental remediation, electronic materials, and mineral processing. Their performance strongly influenced by bulk and surface properties. In this work, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were performed to investigate the structural and dynamical behaviour of...
Go to contribution page -
Thamia Molefe (University of Limpopo)08/07/2026, 16:20
ABSTRACT
Go to contribution page
The growing global demand for sustainable and high-performance energy storage systems has directed significant research attention toward titanium dioxide (TiO₂) as a prospective anode material for lithium-ion batteries [1]. In this study, the structural and thermodynamic behaviour of amorphous TiO₂ is systematically investigated using classical molecular dynamics (MD) simulations... -
Lesetja Matlabjane (UNIVERSITY OF LIMPOPO)08/07/2026, 16:20
Spodumene (LiAlSi₂O₆) is a primary lithium-bearing mineral of significant industrial importance, particularly in the production of rechargeable batteries for electric vehicles. In natural ore systems, spodumene commonly coexists with feldspar (NaAlSi3O8), which serves as a major gangue mineral, necessitating efficient separation strategies. In this study, a combination of density functional...
Go to contribution page -
Luyanda Khanyile (University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pursuing a Master’s degree in Astrophysics.)08/07/2026, 16:20
The Hydrogen Intensity and Real-time Analysis eXperiment (HIRAX) is a radio interferometer designed to probe the large-scale structure of the Universe through 21 cm intensity mapping, with the goal of constraining dark matter and dark energy. Achieving high-precision measurements requires accurate calibration of instrumental effects, particularly in the presence of non-redundant systematics...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Solomzi Nobute (North west University center of space reseach)08/07/2026, 16:20
This study investigates the large scale structure and time evolution of stellar
Go to contribution page
astrospheres with magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) simulations. We study the
heliosphere as an first example of an astrosphere, and then investigate Lambda
Cephei, a massive runaway O-type star. Astrospheres are formed when stellar
winds meet the interstellar medium (ISM). This produces a variety of... -
Dr Paulinah Fasanmi (University of Johannesburg)08/07/2026, 16:20
In this study, a numerical simulation of a BaZrS3-based perovskite solar cell was performed using SCAP-1D. An attempt was made to optimize the performance of the solar cell configuration FTO/ZnO/BaZrS3/WSe2 by varying several parameters. The effect of the variation of the thicknesses of the hole transport layer (HTL), electron transport layer (ETL), absorber (perovskite) layer, acceptor dopant...
Go to contribution page -
Thabang Kombesi08/07/2026, 16:20
The design and development of advanced materials exhibiting high magnetic anisotropy, enhanced thermal stability, and strong mechanical robustness are essential for next-generation spintronic and data storage applications. L1₀-ordered MnPt is a promising rare-earth-free material due to its large magnetocrystalline anisotropy and strong spin polarization. Alloying MnPt with transition metals...
Go to contribution page -
Bhila Oliver Mnisi08/07/2026, 16:20
The distinctive structural, mechanical, phonon, and electronic properties of hexagonal compounds make them suitable for high‑temperature structural applications. The properties of Sc₆As₂B boride were investigated using first‑principles density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The calculated heat of formation of Sc₆As₂B boride is negative, confirming its thermodynamic stability....
Go to contribution page -
Mr Thabang Mokwena (University of Limpopo)08/07/2026, 16:20
L10 Mn50Al50 is a promising hard magnetic material due to its good magnetic properties such as high magnetic moment and high Curie temperature. It is considered the best candidate for use as a permanent magnet in various applications such as electric cars and wind turbines. However, L10 MnAl has drawbacks such as being brittle and thermodynamically unstable. A cluster expansion has been used...
Go to contribution page -
Ms Luwy Swanepoel (Centre for Space Research, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, Potchefstroom, 2531, South Africa)08/07/2026, 16:20
Poly(2,5)-benzimidazole (ABPBI) is a high-performance polymer with potential applications in extreme environments such as low Earth orbit (LEO), where vacuum-induced degradation and outgassing are critical concerns. In this study, ABPBI-based nanocomposites incorporating multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), and hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) are investigated to...
Go to contribution page -
Thobekile Ngwane (Stellenbosch University and South African Astronomical Observatory), Christine Margarete Steenkamp (Stellenbosch University, Physics Department)08/07/2026, 16:20
Small near-Earth asteroids (diameter ≲150 m) represent the most numerous yet least characterised segment of potentially hazardous objects in our Solar System (Binzel et al., 2004). Their rapid fading after discovery limits follow-up opportunities, leaving gaps in our understanding of their compositional distribution. Here we present results from an ongoing robotic follow-up programme using the...
Go to contribution page -
Kevin Rorke (University of South Africa)08/07/2026, 16:20
Rotating Radio Transients (RRATS) are a class of pulsars that were identified in 2006 by McLaughlin et al. Unlike canonical pulsars, which are characterized by regular pulses that are detectable by Fourier transform periodicity searches, RRATs emit pulses sporadically and are best detected by single-pulse searches.
Go to contribution page
J1819-1458, a galactic RRAT with a dispersion measure (DM) of 196, is the... -
Ms Dineo Motjope (First author)08/07/2026, 16:20
In this work a two-component density functional theory is employed in the modelling of defects in ion and neutron-irradiated SnO2 using positrons as probes. Since defects are localized, the local density approximation (LDA) is used, which is part of DFT. Although LDA gives a good approximation of positron lifetimes and electron-positron annihilation momentum density, it does not consider the...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Suggest Baloyi (University of the Free State)08/07/2026, 16:20
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), especially benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene isomers (BTEX) are hazardous air pollutants that pose significant risks to human health and the environment, necessitating the development of highly sensitive and selective gas-sensing materials. In this study, Co3O4 and Fe2O3 semiconducting metal oxides (SMO) were synthesized via a microwave-assisted...
Go to contribution page -
Ibrahim Ali08/07/2026, 16:20
Refractory silicide–boride compounds have recently attracted significant attention as potential candidates for high-temperature structural applications beyond the operational limits of conventional Ni-based superalloys. In this study, we employ first-principles calculations to investigate the structural, electronic, mechanical, and dynamical properties of ternary intermetallic compounds, with...
Go to contribution page -
Kenny Monontsi (North-West University)08/07/2026, 16:20
The ionosphere plays an important role in space weather phenomena and its understanding is important in High Frequency (HF) communications and navigation systems. However its response to sudden solar activity, e.g., solar flares, is still an area of ongoing research. In this work, we report for the first time the global statistical response of the ionospheric topside electron density to...
Go to contribution page -
Mpho Maswanganye (University of Limpopo)08/07/2026, 16:20
Pristine CdO and Zn doped CdO nanoparticles have been prepared via solid-state method. A simple and cost-effective synthetic method where the precursors zinc acetate dehydration and cadmium acetate dehydration were mixed in ethanol. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis indicated that the prepared samples were of a single crystalline cubic structure of CdO with the patterns observed to be...
Go to contribution page -
Kelsey Everts (University of the Witwatersrand)08/07/2026, 16:20
Recent nanotechnology and metasurface advancements have enabled ultraprecise light control, catalysing developments in energy conversion, sensing and imaging. Simultaneously, structuring light in space-time has opened new realms for exploring the physics of both fundamental and applied light-matter interactions. Unfortunately, conventional space-time light structuring methods require large,...
Go to contribution page -
Prince Mkwae (University of Zululand)08/07/2026, 16:20
Cobalt oxide (Co3O4) nanostructures were successfully synthesized by hydrothermal synthesis method using various solvents solutions. Physical and chemical properties of the as-synthesized nanostructures were examined using various characterization techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and UV-Vis spectroscopy to name the few. X-ray diffraction revealed that the...
Go to contribution page -
Nolufundo Sintwa (Student)08/07/2026, 16:20
Zinc titanate (ZnTiO3) nanostructures were synthesized by an eco-friendly sol-gel method using an ethanolic plant extract as a reducing and capping agent. The synthesized nanostructures were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy, which confirmed the formation of the rhombohedral ZnTiO3 phase. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the formation of...
Go to contribution page -
Metuel Dipuo Sethosa08/07/2026, 16:20
Chromium-substituted cobalt ferrite nanoparticles CoCrₓFe₂₋ₓO₄ (0 ≤ x ≤ 2.0) were successfully synthesized via the hydrothermal method. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns confirmed the formation of a single-phase cubic spinel structure. Crystallite sizes ranged from 6.6 to 13.7 nm, while lattice parameters decreased from 8.2603 to 8.1974 Å with increasing chromium content. SEM showed uniform...
Go to contribution page -
Nangamso Ndzamela (iYuniversity Walter Sisulu)08/07/2026, 16:20
This study examined the structural, chemical and electrical behaviour of silicon nanoparticles produced by high-energy milling, with the goal of understanding how milling conditions, material type and ageing influence their surface stability and electrical activity. The powders, derived from metallurgical and n-type silicon, consistently formed nanocrystalline particles with crystallite sizes...
Go to contribution page -
Leago Heaven Pitsa08/07/2026, 16:20
Surface and electronic properties of LiTi2(PO4)3 as solid-state electrolyte: A DFT study.
Leago Pitsa, kemeridge Malatji, Phuti Ngoepe, and Khomotso Maenetja
Materials Modelling Centre, University of Limpopo, Private Bag X1106, Sovenga, 0727, South Africa
Abstract.
Go to contribution page
Solid electrolytes are at the forefront of research for next-generation energy storage systems, offering enhanced... -
Mr Victor Sokhela (Student@University of Johannesburg)08/07/2026, 16:20
We present the effect of cerium(Ce3+) at various concentrations ranging from 1-5 wt%, doped in CoNiFe2O4 for the detection of LPG and H2S prepared by the Sol-gel method. X-ray Diffraction confirms the cubic phase of all the samples, and no impurities were detected with a crystallite size range of 8 to 11 nm. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Electron Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS)...
Go to contribution page -
Nkosikhona Dlamini (University of the free state)08/07/2026, 16:20
Detecting harmful aromatic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as toluene remains a major environmental and safety concern. In this work, SrTiO3 and SrTiO3/Ti3C2Tx MXene composite structures were prepared through a hydrothermal synthesis method, while Ti3C2Tx MXene was synthesized through the LiF-HCl etching. Detailed investigations were conducted to evaluate the structural and optical...
Go to contribution page -
Nwabisa Mkhize08/07/2026, 16:20
A series of MgxZn1-xAl0.4Fe1.6O4 (0 ≤ x ≤ 1.0) substituted mixed ferrites with fine particles (5.0 ≤ D ≤ 11.0 nm) were synthesized by glycol thermal technique. XRD data confirmed formation of single-phase cubic spinel structure with no impurity phases. XRD results were complemented by TEM analysis which showed nearly spherical images with narrow size particle distribution. Substitution of Zn...
Go to contribution page -
Lethabile Masiu (Lethabile Masiu)08/07/2026, 16:20
SrAl2O4:Eu2+ is a well-known phosphor due to its strong green emission. The intense green emission makes SrAl2O4:Eu2+ an extremely interesting material for a broad range of applications, including emergency and safety lighting, anti-counterfeiting labels, roadway markings, and phosphor-coated bricks. This study investigates Eu2+-doped SrAl2O4 phosphors synthesized via the solid-state reaction...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Thabo Nhlakanipho Nhlenyama (University of Zululand)08/07/2026, 16:20
The structural stability of iridium-based alloys remains significant due to iridium's (Ir) outstanding high-temperature properties and corrosion resistance, particularly for aerospace and extreme-environment applications. However, the inherent brittleness of pure FCC Ir and its high cost limit its broader structural applications. This study employed first-principles calculations based on...
Go to contribution page -
291. The effect of temperature on structural, and thermal properties of ZrTiVNbCr high entropy alloyMs Lebogang Motsomone (University of Limpopo)08/07/2026, 16:20
Refractory high entropy alloys (RHEAs) have emerged as promising candidates for the development of more effective hydrogen storage materials. This area is becoming increasingly important as the quest for sustainable and efficient energy solutions continues. However, no commercially available hydrogen storage material or system currently meets all the stringent ultimate Department of Energy...
Go to contribution page -
Welcome Komana08/07/2026, 16:20
This research presents the heat rate kinetics of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) within the LPG sensing process using metal oxide semiconductors (MOS) based on MgCexFe₂₋ₓO₄ (x = 0, 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3). Much has been reported on the detection of LPG using MOS, and anomalies in gas sensing were observed in terms of the electrical current and the operating temperature. Oscillation/Variation were...
Go to contribution page -
Ms Karabo Lurcender Bridgette Masilela08/07/2026, 16:20
Monitoring hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is vital for industrial safety and environmental systems, enabling the assessment of sulfur deposition, long-term impacts, and ecosystem stress. In this study, sensors made from CuO, CeO2, and their CuO/CeO2 heterostructure were hydrothermally synthesized and tested for gas detection performance against H2S. Multiple characterization techniques, such as X-ray...
Go to contribution page -
Olatunbosun Nubi (University of Limpopo)08/07/2026, 16:20
Modification of titanium dioxide (TiO₂) with noble metals such as gold (Au) and platinum (Pt) is a primary strategy for enhancing its performance in photocatalysis, sensing, and energy conversion. However, a systematic comparative study of how these dopants influence the thermal evolution of TiO₂ across a wide range of temperatures remains limited. In this work, the influence of Au and Pt...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Thapelo Lebopo (University of Limpopo), Prof. Thuto Mosuang (University of Limpopo)08/07/2026, 16:20
Thermal evolution and stability of hexagonal molybdenum diselenide were investigated using classical molecular dynamics simulations. Stillinger-Weber type potential parameters were considered for interatomic molybdenum–molybdenum, molybdenum-selenium, and selenium-selenium interactions. NPT Hoover thermodynamic ensemble was explored to check different energy-temperature variations. Radial...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Dumisani Mlotswa (Aspiring Physicist)08/07/2026, 16:20
Near-infrared (NIR) luminescent materials play a vital role in photonic, optoelectronic, and biological applications. In this work, the ErTaO4 host was synthesized by a solid-state chemical reaction at 1200 °C for 4 h. X-ray diffraction (XRD) was used to confirm that the sample crystallized into a single phase, without impurities. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to confirm the...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Bereket Dalga Dana (Rhodes University)08/07/2026, 16:20
The thermoluminescence of ajoite is reported. A glow curve measured at 1 °C/s after beta irradiation to 10 Gy shows a high-intensity peak at 76 °C (peak PI) and secondary peaks at 200, 280 and 340 °C (peaks PII-PIV). This study mainly concerns the high-intensity peak, peak PI, although some supplementary material on peak PII is included. The order of kinetics for peak PI was determined to be...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Siphumliso Mbidana (Walter Sisulu University)08/07/2026, 16:20
This study investigates the relationship between the topology and electrical properties of printed silicon nanoparticle networks, focusing on how variations in cluster size and particle concentration influence charge transport. Silicon nanoparticles were produced via high-energy ball milling and separated into three cluster regimes, 25 μm, 50 μm, and 100 μm, each formulated into inks with...
Go to contribution page -
Friedrich Voelcker (University of Cape Town)08/07/2026, 16:20
Electrons trapped on the surface of liquid helium constitute one of the purest two-dimensional electron systems in nature, forming a clean, defect-free platform in which electrons are bound to the surface by their image charge and are free to move laterally with record high mobilities. This system has long been of fundamental interest for studies of two-dimensional physics and, more recently,...
Go to contribution page -
Lisbon Maake (University of Limpopo)08/07/2026, 16:20
NASICON-type LiTi₂(PO₄)₃ is a promising solid electrolyte for all-solid-state lithium batteries due to its good thermal stability, structural durability, and three-dimensional lithium-ion conduction framework. However, its intrinsically low room-temperature ionic conductivity remains a major challenge for practical application. In this study, molecular dynamics simulations carried out with the...
Go to contribution page -
Muano Mbedzi (mutikimbedzi@gmail.com)08/07/2026, 16:20
This study investigates temporal trends and variability in maximum and minimum temperatures in Vuwani, South Africa, using observational data from the Southern African Universities Radiometric Network (SAURAN) spanning the period from April 2015 to December 2023. Understanding local-scale temperature dynamics is essential for assessing the impacts of climate change, particularly in...
Go to contribution page -
Nthangeni Rofhiwa (University Of Venda)08/07/2026, 16:20
This study presents a focused analysis of trends in Physical Sciences education in South Africa from 2008 to 2023, examining learner performance, systemic disparities, and post-school outcomes. Using national assessment data and higher education statistics, the study identifies a steady improvement in overall Grade 12 pass rates over time, particularly following curriculum reforms such as the...
Go to contribution page -
Prof. Peace Mkhonto (University of Limpopo)08/07/2026, 16:20
Pyrite is an abundant mineral that is usually found in association with a number of base metal sulphide (BMSs) and understanding its interaction with collectors is key in unravelling its depression mechanism. This requires a highly selective collector to target and float the desired mineral, which is significant in designing collector molecules. The modification of collectors offers hope to...
Go to contribution page -
Teboho Mokoena (University of the Free state)08/07/2026, 16:20
Coal mine gas explosions represent one of the most catastrophic hazards in underground mining, ranking among the leading causes of mining fatalities worldwide and imposing severe economic burdens on coal-generating nations. Therefore, the detection of these volatile organic compounds (VOC) gases in the early stages is very significant for preventing catastrophic explosions in underground coal...
Go to contribution page -
Paul Garrett (University of Guelph)09/07/2026, 08:30
The past two decades have witnessed a resurgence in nuclear structure physics due to the advent of radioactive beam facilities around the world. In parallel, there have been tremendous strides in nuclear structure theory that are able to provide highly accurate predictions from first-principle approaches. New phenomena are being discovered and old paradigms challenged resulting in a much...
Go to contribution page -
Thando Timax Khedzi (University of South Africa)09/07/2026, 09:30Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
This work investigates the possible existence of a bound state of the 21C carbon isotope. This nucleus is suggested to possibly exist as a weakly bound neutron halo. The 20C and the 22C carbon isotopes have already been confirmed as weakly bound halo nuclei near the neutron drip line. Despite advancements in research technologies, the characteristics, structures, and reaction dynamics of these...
Go to contribution page -
Bahati Mukeru09/07/2026, 09:30Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsOral Presentation
The optical model (OM) formalism inherently omits the structural properties of weakly bound nuclei, owing to its restriction to an effective two-body description. By assuming the halo and non-halo configurations of $^8$B and $^{11}$Be projectiles on two quite different mass targets, $^{64}$Zn and $^{208}$Pb, we introduce an approach that explicitly incorporates the ground-state structure of a...
Go to contribution page -
Prof. Irvy (Igle) Gledhill (U. Witwatersrand)09/07/2026, 09:30
This work is part of an extended programme to understand and formulate the flow physics of accelerating objects travelling in the transonic and subsonic speed ranges. Of these, deceleration generates the more interesting flow phenomena. The persistence of shocks ahead of objects decelerating from transonic speeds was for some time puzzling [1], but it is now clear that these are shocks formed...
Go to contribution page -
DuToit Strauss (North-West University)09/07/2026, 09:30
The Deployable Low-Band Ionosphere and Transient Experiment (DLITE) is a four element interferometric radio telescope, nominally operating in the 30 - 50 MHz band. Although the instrument is primarily designed to study transient ionospheric phenomena it is, of course, also sensitive to other transient phenomena, such as solar radio bursts. Recently, a South African DLITE station, SA-DLITE, was...
Go to contribution page -
Ramalebana Moeti09/07/2026, 09:30Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
The increasing demand for materials capable of maintaining high mechanical performance under extreme thermal environments has exposed the limitations of conventional high-temperature materials such as Ni-based superalloys. As a result, high-entropy alloys (HEAs), particularly single-phase body-centred cubic (BCC) systems, have attracted significant attention due to their high configurational...
Go to contribution page -
Lebogang Mfulwane (Centre for Space Research, North-West University,)09/07/2026, 09:30
Fast Radio Bursts (FRBs) are bright, millisecond radio pulses occurring at cosmological distances. The nature of these sources is still unknown. Upon localisation of the repeating FRBs, luminous compact persistent radio sources (PRSs) can be detected in some cases. Studying the PRSs may give us clues about the immediate environments of the FRBs, which in turn provides insights into the nature...
Go to contribution page -
Karabo Tau (University of the Witwatersrand (ZA))09/07/2026, 09:30Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
The High Granularity Timing Detector (HGTD) is a key upgrade to the ATLAS experiment for the High-Luminosity LHC, designed to mitigate the effects of high pile-up through precision timing measurements. The detector will be installed between the barrel and end-cap calorimeters, covering the pseudorapidity region $2.4 < |\eta| < 4.0$, and is based on Low Gain Avalanche Detectors (LGADs) with a...
Go to contribution page -
OWEN BEUKES (NORTH WEST UNIVERSITY)09/07/2026, 09:50
Using high resolution RSS longslit data recently obtained from SALT, we have obtained the mass distribution in a nearby gas-rich dwarf galaxy - UGCA 014. In this talk, I will present the first rotation curve for this
Go to contribution page
galaxy derived from its Hβ ionized gas component. I will show that the rotation curve exhibits a steep rise in the inner kiloparsec, reaching a velocity of ∼42 km/s, and remains... -
Thabo James Lepota (University of the Witwatersrand)09/07/2026, 09:50Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
The High Granularity Timing Detector (HGTD) in the ATLAS experiment is designed to provide precision timing measurements for charged particle tracks in the forward region, enabling enhanced pileup mitigation at the High-Luminosity Large Hadron Collider (HL-LHC). In this study, we investigate the integration of HGTD timing information into the Charged Hadron Subtraction (CHS) procedure within...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Mubarak Yagoub (University of Johannesburg)09/07/2026, 09:50Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
The PrCuGe3 compound exhibits a wide range of interesting phenomena depending on the degree of hybridization between the 4f electrons and the conduction electrons. A considerable experimental work has investigated the structural, magnetic, thermodynamic, and electrical transport properties of this compound. For example, in the literature PrCuGe3 is reported to undergo a long-range...
Go to contribution page -
Ryan Atkin (University of Cape Town)09/07/2026, 09:50
This project presents the simulation of a low-cost Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scanner. The high cost of PET scanners limits their use in many parts of the world, specifically developing countries. Lower-cost alternatives would increase the accessibility for neurological and paediatric care.
Go to contribution page
A detailed Monte Carlo simulation framework is used to model a full PET scan, from the decay... -
Ms Innocentia Itumeleng Ramokgaba (1. School of Physical & Chemical Sciences, North-West University, Mmabatho, South Africa. 2. Centre of Space Research, North-west University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.)09/07/2026, 09:50
The recent observations of galactic deuteron (D) from AMS-02 and Voyager 1 detectors provide interesting surprises to the established paradigm of the secondary origin of galactic D. In this study a comprehensive 3D numerical model is used to simulate the solar modulation of D and protons (p) at the Earth from 2006 to 2014, spanning time frames that include solar maximum activity and the...
Go to contribution page -
Lwazikazi Maqungo (UWC)09/07/2026, 09:50Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
There is renewed interest in the exploration of the nature of low-lying collective excitations in nuclei, as several recent studies have posed serious ques tions regarding the veracity of multiphonon quadrupole vibrations [1, 2]. A recent survey of nuclei with previously assumed low-lying spherical vibrational structure showed that very few passed the criteria [3]. Of the few remaining...
Go to contribution page -
Jack Brand (University of Cape Town)09/07/2026, 10:10Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsOral Presentation
The quark-gluon plasma (QGP) is a deconfined state of strongly interacting matter that provides a unique laboratory for studying the strong nuclear force. It is produced in relativistic heavy-ion collisions, such as ${}^{208}\mathrm{Pb}+{}^{208}\mathrm{Pb}$ and, more recently, ${}^{16}\mathrm{O}+{}^{16}\mathrm{O}$ at the LHC. High-momentum (“hard”) probes traversing the QGP lose energy through...
Go to contribution page -
Lehlohonolo Moloi (Student)09/07/2026, 10:10Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
Air quality profoundly impacts human health, particularly in rapidly urbanizing regions like South Africa, where pollution from industrial and vehicular sources poses significant risks. Recent reviews highlight Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks as superior for modeling temporal dependencies in air quality data, outperforming traditional methods in pollution forecasting. Building on these...
Go to contribution page -
Hope Ramolahloane (University of the Free State)09/07/2026, 10:10Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
Abstract
Go to contribution page
Latent fingerprint detection using powder dusting relies on achieving high contrast between the fingerprint details and the underlying surface. Conventional and near-ultraviolet (NUV)-excited powders often suffer from background interference, limiting their effectiveness on multicoloured or fluorescent substrates. Near-infrared (NIR)-to-visible upconversion materials offer a... -
Bosco Oryema (Centre for Space Research, North-West University, Potchefstroom, 2531, North West, South Africa), Joseph Omojola (North-West University)09/07/2026, 10:10
Much as air travel has become increasingly important in today’s society for quickly connecting people and places, aircraft and their occupants (passengers and aircrews) are exposed to enhanced levels of ionizing radiation at flight altitudes (8 – 12 km). The space radiation, mainly originating from the Sun and galactic sources, may degrade essential aircraft subcomponents and cause...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Joshua Tolulope Majekodunmi (University Of South Africa)09/07/2026, 10:10Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
Two competing theoretical approaches - the Sudden Model and the Adiabatic Model - have been widely used to explain the phenomenon of fusion hindrance in heavy-ion fusion reactions at deep sub-barrier energies. These models predict significantly different depths of the nucleus–nucleus interaction potential, yet they often reproduce similar fusion cross-sections. Thus, the underlying mechanism...
Go to contribution page -
Geoff Beck (University of the Witwatersrand)09/07/2026, 10:10
MeerKAT is currently a leading radio interferometer in the frequency range from 500 MHz to 1.6 GHz. So far, WIMP searches have been conducted in legacy survey data of galaxy clusters (MGCLS), archival Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) data, and open-time observations of the dwarf galaxy Reticulum II. In this talk we will present the status of current results from these WIMP searches. Highlighting...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Lehlohonolo Moloi (University of Witwatersrand)09/07/2026, 11:00Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
Econophysics uses tools from physics, such as self-organized criticality, to explain economic fluctuations through agent interactions rather than assumptions of perfect rationality. This framework supports physics lecturers in teaching students by contrasting the Bak-Chen-Scheinkman-Woodford self-organized criticality model with Real Business Cycle (RBC) theory, using the rationality debate as...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Esmond Craig Vyfers (University of the Western Cape)09/07/2026, 11:00Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
Thin-film targets are indispensable to nuclear physics research. This talk will
Go to contribution page
focus on Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) techniques to produce mono- and
multi-layered samples in dedicated target laboratories at iThemba LABS and
Daresbury Laboratory [1, 2]. We produced such samples by thermally evaporat-
ing ZnS and LiF source-materials and Ni/Ti and Cr/Au metals in high vacuum
(∼10−7... -
Timothy Brooks (University of Johannesburg)09/07/2026, 11:00
Accurate temperature monitoring in high-radiation environments is critical for the reliable operation of high-energy physics detectors. Fibre Bragg Grating (FBG) sensors fabricated in radiation-hardened optical fibres are widely considered for such applications due to their compactness and immunity to electromagnetic interference. In this study, the thermal response of a radiation-hardened...
Go to contribution page -
Ms Zandile Mpupa (university of the western cape)09/07/2026, 11:00Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
Abstract
Go to contribution page
The polycrystalline Ce₂Al₃Ge₄ compound has been synthesized by arc-melting. The structural, magnetic and critical behavior properties have been investigated through measurements of X-ray diffraction (XRD), magnetic susceptibility, χ(T), magnetization, M(μ₀H), and heat capacity, Cₚ(T). The structure has been obtained and refined from XRD pattern in the Cmcm – D₂h No. 64 space group... -
Rens Roosenstein (University of Cape Town, University of Amsterdam)09/07/2026, 11:00Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsOral Presentation
In this talk I present a first-principles construction of the thermal partition function for scalar quantum field theories in finite volume, with an emphasis on mathematical control and physical consistency. Motivated by small systems in high-energy collisions, such as the quark-gluon plasma produced at the LHC and RHIC, we investigate how finite system size modifies thermodynamic observables...
Go to contribution page -
Christo Pretorius09/07/2026, 11:00
Astrospheres are large scale magnetized plasma structures formed by the interaction between stellar winds and the surrounding interstellar medium (ISM). These systems play a fundamental role in regulating the transport and modulation of energetic charged particles. In this study, we will investigate the astrosphere of the runaway O-type star $\lambda$ Cephei using three dimensional...
Go to contribution page -
Edward Nkadimeng (University of the Witwatersrand)09/07/2026, 11:00Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
The Tile Calorimeter (TileCal) is a sampling hadronic calorimeter covering the central region of the ATLAS experiment, with steel as the absorber and plastic scintillators as the active medium. The High-Luminosity phase of the LHC, delivering five times the LHC’s nominal instantaneous luminosity, is expected to begin in 2029. TileCal will require new electronics to meet the requirements of a 1...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Katlego Moloto (North-West University)09/07/2026, 11:00
Cosmic-ray neutron sensing (CRNS) has emerged as a promising non-invasive technique for field-scale soil moisture monitoring in agricultural systems. However, the accuracy of CRNS measurements is significantly influenced by above-ground biomass water equivalent (BWE), which varies dynamically throughout crop growth cycles. This study employs URANOS (Ultra Rapid Adaptable Neutron-Only...
Go to contribution page -
Anathi Cutha09/07/2026, 11:20Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
South Africa faces a critical deficit in spatially continuous, cost-effective soil health monitoring, a gap that undermines informed land management, food security planning, and national resource governance. Conventional soil assessment methods, which depend on discrete point sampling and laboratory analysis, are inherently too slow, too costly, and too spatially limited to capture the...
Go to contribution page -
Charles Takalana (IAU-OAD)09/07/2026, 11:20Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
Hack4dev, was launched in May 2022 by Prof. Carolina Odman, with the participation of several partners, including the Inter-University Institute for Data Intensive Astronomy (IDIA), the Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD), the BRICS Intelligent Telescope and Data Network (BITDN), Development in Africa with Radio Astronomy (DARA), and the African Astronomical Society (AfAS). Since then,...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Abraham Dimitri Kapim kenfack (Tshwane University of Technology)09/07/2026, 11:20
This study investigates the influence of graphene on the electrical characteristics of a magnesium/polyaniline/fluorine doped tin oxide (Mg/PANI/FTO) Schottky diode using a computational approach. Three device configurations are considered: (i) a reference structure without graphene, (ii) a structure incorporating graphene at the Mg-PANI interface., and (iii) a structure with graphene inserted...
Go to contribution page -
Lungisani Phakathi (University of Witwatersrand)09/07/2026, 11:20Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
The Phase-II upgrade of the ATLAS Tile Calorimeter (TileCal) for the High-Luminosity Large Hadron Collider will also comprise the new finger Low Voltage Power Supply (fLVPS) boards to satisfy the new requirements on radiation tolerance, reliability and performance of the device. University of Witwatersrand in South Africa share the production of 2048 fLVPS boards with UTA in America....
Go to contribution page -
Tiaan van der Merwe (University of Cape Town)09/07/2026, 11:20Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsOral Presentation
In high-energy heavy-ion collisions at facilities such as the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) and Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC), extreme temperatures and energy densities are achieved, leading to the formation of a deconfined state of matter known as the quark–gluon plasma (QGP). Hard-scattered partons produced in the early stages of the collision traverse this hot and dense medium,...
Go to contribution page -
261. Optimized composition of the In2O3-Co3O4-ZnO nanostructure loaded with Ru for ethanol detectionKatlego Morulane (University of the Free State)09/07/2026, 11:20Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
Ethanol (C2H5OH) is a poisonous, highly flammable, and explosive volatile organic compound extensively used in the food and beverage, petrochemical, and agricultural industries. Exposure to high concentrations of C2H5OH vapor can cause severe health and safety issues, including respiratory tract damage, central nervous system effects, and potential explosions. Therefore, highly sensitive...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Johan Nel (Centre for Space Research (NWU))09/07/2026, 11:20
Accurate stellar velocity dispersion measurements are of great importance for
Go to contribution page
understanding the dynamical masses, evolutionary stages, and are fundamen-
tal in studying the gravitational potential of galaxies. The accuracy of these
measurements depends on the coverage of the spectrograph, the redshift, the
signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and the wavelength range used to perform... -
Prof. Eamon Scullion (University of Northumbria Newcastle upon Tyne (UK))09/07/2026, 11:30
High-resolution observations of the solar chromosphere have revealed ubiquitous prominent spiralling structures. These structures have been linked to the swirling downflows present in the intergranular lanes of the solar photosphere, existing as vortex tubes. Vortex tubes have been proposed as conduits for energy transfer throughout the solar atmosphere, channelling energy in the form of...
Go to contribution page -
Mkhatshwa Xolile (University Of Venda)09/07/2026, 11:40
The study of astrophysical transients has traditionally been hampered by delays
Go to contribution page
between multi-wavelength observations, often causing crucial early-time information
to be lost. The MeerLICHT optical telescope at SAAO in Sutherland was designed to
overcome this limitation by operating simultaneously with the MeerKAT radio
telescope, enabling a novel, commensal approach to exploring the... -
Andile Zulu (University of the Western Cape)09/07/2026, 11:40Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
Low-energy Coulomb-excitation (reorientation-effect) measurements [1] of the first excited $2_1^+$ state in $^{60}$Ni were performed at iThemba LABS using the $^{194}$Pt($^{60}$Ni,$^{60}$Ni)$^{194}$Pt reaction at $T_{\mathrm{lab}} = 242.7$ MeV. Previous Coulomb-excitation measurements at iThemba LABS have been performed for $^{20}$Ne [2] and $^{36}$Ar [3]. A diagonal electric quadrupole...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Makhamisa Senekane (University of Johannesburg)09/07/2026, 11:40
The advances in computing, coupled with the easy availability of massive datasets, have led to the widespread adoption of machine learning (ML) in general and deep learning (DL) in particular. In essence, the traditional DL models are fundamentally data-driven. That is, these models tend to have an improved performance when the input data is increased. Therefore, it is challenging to deploy...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Emmanuel Diutlwetse Magasi (University of johannesburg)09/07/2026, 11:40Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
Lithium zinc borate (LiZnBO$_3$) is a metal borate material that has garnered a huge scientific interest because of its distinctive electronic, optical, and physico-chemical properties which makes them suitable candidates for environmental remediation applications in a world hugely affected by pollution from different sectors such as mining and agriculture. These novel LiZnBO3 nanomaterials...
Go to contribution page -
Martha Mashao09/07/2026, 11:40Track G - Theoretical and Computational PhysicsPoster Presentation
A few microseconds after the Big Bang, the universe existed in an extremely hot and dense phase where ordinary hadrons could not form and matter took the form of quark-gluon plasma (QGP). High-energy partons produced in initial hard scatterings traverse the expanding QGP and lose energy through multiple interactions with the medium constituents, a phenomenon known as jet quenching. To isolate...
Go to contribution page -
Peter Horszowski (PERT)09/07/2026, 11:40Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
First year students at the University of the Western Cape predicted that a sinusoidal model of motion would be quadratic, while third year students at the University of Limpopo predicted a quadratic model would be sinusoidal. In this presentation on the ‘practure’, we suggest that learners have an instinct to ‘squash’ their familiar models onto real world experience, and that live data in the...
Go to contribution page -
Donald Ngobeni09/07/2026, 11:40Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
The Large Hadron Collider (LHC) is undergoing a major upgrade to increase its luminosity, initiating the High-Luminosity Large Hadron Collider (HL-LHC). The Phase-II upgrade of the ATLAS detector involves a complete upgrade of the Tile Calorimeter (TileCal) readout electronics to withstand higher radiation levels, increased trigger rates, and elevated pile-up conditions. This upgrade includes...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Makhamisa Senekane (University of Johannesburg)09/07/2026, 12:00
The Standard Model (SM) of particle physics provides a mathematical description of the constituents of matter, together with their interactions. The deviation from the SM might lead to the outliers that herald the new physics. Therefore, the use of anomaly detection models plays a crucial role in the discovery of the new physics; thereby facilitating the move beyond the Standard Model. For...
Go to contribution page -
Nicholas Onkoba (UNISA)09/07/2026, 12:00Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
Titanium oxide is a promising corrosion-resistant catalyst support for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells; however, its low electrical conductivity limits performance. In this work, titanium oxynitride materials were synthesized via two routes: a sol–gel method followed by thermal nitridation at 650 °C, and a hydrothermal synthesis calcined at 750...
Go to contribution page -
Karabo Mosala (University of the Witwatersrand)09/07/2026, 12:00Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
A study of the response, uniformity, and time stability of the E-cells of the ATLAS Tile Calorimeter is presented using isolated muons from $Z \to \mu\mu$ events in $pp$ collisions at $\sqrt{s} = 13.6$~TeV. The E-cells, located in the gap and crack regions, measure the energy deposited in passive material and require dedicated calibration. This study provides an independent muon-based...
Go to contribution page -
Magdeline Matobe (SAIP)09/07/2026, 12:00
Astronomical spectroscopy is a study of how matter interacts with light (Penner, 2017). Today, it is recognised that light behaves both like a wave and particle (Sliney, 2016). Scientists use spectroscopy to study celestial objects by analysing the light they emit, absorb, or reflect. The separation of light with a spectrograph results in the visible spectrum (Dopita et al., 2007). Studying...
Go to contribution page -
Masego Mothapo09/07/2026, 12:00Track B - Nuclear, Particle and Radiation PhysicsOral Presentation
This study focuses on radiometric measurements, which will be conducted at phosphate mines in South Africa, including sites of a former phosphate mine known for its fossil-rich Varswater Formation, phosphate processing areas, and tailing and waste areas. Phosphate rocks are significant to industry but naturally contain radionuclide isotopes such as uranium (²³⁸U), thorium (²³²Th), and...
Go to contribution page -
Calmay Lee (North-West University)09/07/2026, 12:10
The solar atmosphere and magnetic field are highly structured and dynamic. Jet-like features such as spicules move from the photosphere to the lower corona while solar flares cause heating of the plasma in the chromosphere leading to volume expansion within coronal loops. These two phenomena are often simulated with a pulse driven from the photosphere into a vertical magnetic field and...
Go to contribution page -
Aphile Chithwayo (Student)09/07/2026, 12:20Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
This study investigates the temperature-dependent magnetic properties and structural transitions of ε-Fe$_{2}$O$_{3}$ nanoparticles embedded in a silica matrix, synthesized via the sol-gel method. While literature reports an exceptionally large room-temperature coercivity of ε-Fe$_{2}$O$_{3}$ approximately = 2 T (20 kOe), often attributed to its disordered structure, the precise effects of...
Go to contribution page -
Zamaswazi Tshabalala (University of the Free State)09/07/2026, 12:20
The widespread emission of nitrogen oxides (NOx; NO and NO2) from mining and transportation activities necessitates sensitive and reliable gas sensing technologies with low power requirements and economic feasibility for large scale deployment. Conventional NOx monitoring systems are often constrained by complex fabrication processes, costly components, and high-power consumption, limiting...
Go to contribution page -
09/07/2026, 13:40
-
MAPHIA GIFT PHOLOANA (UNIVESITY OF FREE STATE)09/07/2026, 14:40Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
We report on the effect of CuO:CeO2 (0.25-1.0 wt.%) nanofibers for the selective detection of CH4 and ppb-level NO, prepared using a hydrothermal approach. The intrinsic features of the CuO:CeO2 nanofibers, including crystal structures, surface adsorption states, and chemical states, were examined. The sensing tests showed that among the fabricated sensors, the 1.0 wt.% CuO:CeO2-based...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Thando Khedzi (University of venda), VHUTSHILO NEKHUBVI (University of venda)09/07/2026, 14:40
The impact of the nature of the biogas on its thermodynamic behavior is studied. Methane and carbon dioxide store energy and their contribution to the molecular degrees of freedom is different. The main aim here is to show how varying concentrations of methane affect the thermal energy needed to raise the temperature of biogas under controlled conditions. This will be done based on the first...
Go to contribution page -
Tshifhiwa Ranwaha (University Of Venda)09/07/2026, 14:40Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
This study addresses the challenge of low teacher confidence and limited pedagogical effectiveness in the teaching of Physical Sciences in under-resourced schools in the Vhembe District. Many teachers struggle with complex topics and practical experiments due to limited training and inadequate laboratory resources.
To address this, a structured teacher development programme was implemented...
Go to contribution page -
JG Coertze (NWU)09/07/2026, 14:40
This study examines the evolution of polar coronal holes (PCHs), regions of open magnetic field in the solar corona, over Solar Cycles 24 and 25. Using AIA 193 Å observations and HMI magnetic-field measurements from the Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO), variations in PCH morphology and magnetic properties across the solar cycle are analysed. The results show that PCH area and occurrence are...
Go to contribution page -
65. Detailed study of a solar flare: photospheric deformation and chromospheric/coronal connectivityRuhann Steyn (Centre for Space Research, North-West University)09/07/2026, 15:00
Solar observations provide a wealth of data at high resolution in all layers of the solar atmosphere, obtained from ground-based and space-born observatories. A multi-layer analysis of a C-class flare observed on 1 July 2012 is presented using high-resolution Swedish 1-m Solar Telescope (SST) observations, SDO/HMI SHARP data, SDO/AIA imaging, and potential field extrapolations. The...
Go to contribution page -
Takalani Nethavhanani (University of Venda)09/07/2026, 15:00
Anaerobic digestion (AD) is a key technology for renewable energy generation and waste management; however, its efficiency is often constrained by slow reaction kinetics and suboptimal microbial efficiency. Recent studies indicate that adding iron oxide (Fe₂O₃) nanoparticles to biodigesters enhances methane production and the anaerobic digestion (AD) process. This ongoing study is...
Go to contribution page -
Athenkosi Siyalo (University of the Western Cape)09/07/2026, 15:00Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
Zn₄B₆O₁₃:xEu³⁺ (x = 1%) phosphor materials were successfully synthesized using three methods, sol-gel, combustion, and solid-state, to investigate the influence of each synthesis method on the structural and photoluminescence properties of the prepared materials. The cubic crystal structure was confirmed in all synthesis methods via the X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique. Scanning electron...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Happy Phage (Central University of Technology, Free State)09/07/2026, 15:00Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
Trends in education and teacher training have proven that due to the latest developments in technology and curriculum transformation, continuous professional development of educators is vital in promoting and improving the teaching and learning of physical science. Studies have proven that educators are blamed for the learners’ poor performance. Less studies have been done on the school...
Go to contribution page -
Siaybulela Andile Nkosi (North-West University)09/07/2026, 15:20Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
Understanding the surface behaviour of polymer composites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) environments is critical for the design of durable space materials. In this study, the evolution of wettability in poly(2,5-benzimidazole) (ABPBI) composites reinforced with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) under UV--ozone exposure was investigated as a proxy for oxidative processes encountered in LEO, where solar...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Odirile Mashalane (Central University of Technology, Free State)09/07/2026, 15:20Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
The study was about identifying physics pre-service teachers' perceptions and challenges with laboratory experimental work (physics practicals).
Go to contribution page -
TSHIMANGADZO SOPHIE MULAUDZI (University of Venda)09/07/2026, 15:20
Abstract
Go to contribution page
Photovoltaic (PV) module mismatch, arising from partial shading, soiling, and cell degradation, results in non-uniform current distribution and localized Joule heating, reducing system efficiency and accelerating material degradation. This study presents an experimental investigation of thermal signatures associated with mismatch conditions in crystalline silicon PV modules using... -
Martin Tarisai Kudinha (CPUT)09/07/2026, 15:40Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
This study highlights the increasing use of technology in teaching and learning, particularly in improving student understanding of complex concepts in electricity. It investigates the effectiveness of integrating PHET simulations with embedded ChatGPT support on student learning outcomes using a pretest–post-test design. The students interacted with the simulation while receiving real-time...
Go to contribution page -
Christopher Arendse (University of the Western Cape), James Mercuur (University of the Western Cape)09/07/2026, 15:40Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
All inorganic halide perovskites such as Caesium Lead Bromide (CsPbBr3) have continued to attract interest for optoelectronic and sensing applications, yet reproducible, contaminant free thin film growth routes have remained limited. This study reported the chemical vapour deposition (CVD) synthesis of phase pure CsPbBr3 thin films using a two-zone furnace system and provides a detailed...
Go to contribution page -
Livhuwani Masevhe (University of Johannesburg)09/07/2026, 15:40
Photovoltaic water pumping systems (PVWPS) provide a sustainable solution for irrigation in off grid and water scarce environments, yet their effectiveness is limited by the lack of integrated, physics based monitoring capable of resolving the coupled dynamics of photovoltaic energy conversion and water transport. Existing approaches often treat electrical and hydraulic subsystems...
Go to contribution page -
09/07/2026, 16:30
-
David Tshwane (Central University of Technology)09/07/2026, 16:30Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
High entropy alloys (HEAs) have garnered significant interest in a variety of applications, including hydrogen storage, due to their distinctive structural and functional characteristics. Using solid state hydrogen storage technologies to store hydrogen energy efficiently has become a major global challenge. Despite this, there is still limited understanding regarding hydrogen binding and...
Go to contribution page -
Mark Herbert (University of the Western Cape)09/07/2026, 16:30Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
Projectile motion is a central topic in secondary school physics curricula and requires the integration of several fundamental kinematic concepts. Despite its importance, both learners and teachers often experience difficulties when solving projectile motion problems. This study investigates how Physical Sciences teachers perceive vertical projectile motion problems and the strategies they use...
Go to contribution page -
09/07/2026, 16:50
-
Ronald Engelbrecht (PostGrad Student)09/07/2026, 16:50Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
This study investigates the extent to which Grade 10 Electricity and Magnetism lesson plans, developed by subject advisory teams during the COVID-19 pandemic, align with the intended goals of South Africa’s Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) for Physical Sciences. Electricity and Magnetism is widely regarded as a conceptually challenging topic due to its abstract nature, thereby...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Mark Herbert (University of the Western Cape)09/07/2026, 17:10Track E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachPoster Presentation
Electricity concepts remain challenging in Physical Sciences education. Modeling Instruction (MI) emphasizes conceptual understanding through multiple representations and active engagement. This study investigates in-service Physical Sciences teachers’ perceptions of Modeling Instruction and examines its impact on their conceptual understanding and problem-solving abilities in DC electric...
Go to contribution page -
Robert Bellarmin Nshimirimana (The South African Nuclear Energy Corporation)10/07/2026, 09:30
Radiography is a non-destructive analytical technique that uses penetrating radiation such as neutrons and X-rays to obtain qualitative and quantitative information about the internal structure of materials. The quality of a radiograph depends strongly on system design parameters, beam characteristics, and experimental configuration, making optimisation of radiography systems a complex...
Go to contribution page -
Emmanuel Igumbor (University of Johannesburg)10/07/2026, 09:30Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
Point defects play a critical role in semiconductors, offering opportunities to tailor and enhance device performance. Two-dimensional (2D) silicon carbide (SiC) is a recently synthesized layered material, but unlike bulk SiC, little is known about the effects of point defects in its monolayer form. In this study, hybrid density functional theory (DFT) was employed to investigate the...
Go to contribution page -
Hesham Abdelbagi (University of Zululand)10/07/2026, 09:50Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
Silicon carbide (SiC) is widely used as a diffusion barrier in advanced nuclear fuels; however, its performance can be compromised by helium (He)-induced surface damage, including blister formation, swelling, and surface exfoliation. In this study, the effectiveness of thin carbon films in mitigating He-induced surface degradation in SiC was investigated. Carbon layers, with thicknesses...
Go to contribution page -
Donald Mkhonto (Mintek)10/07/2026, 09:50
Metal alloy development is key in current advanced technology development. At the same time, advanced manufacturing is a new trend and involves many technologies that can be usefull in converting developed alloys into final products. Additive manufacturing is key in production of intricate structures which are rather difficult or impossible to cast using conventional methods. This may be due...
Go to contribution page -
Mithayelanga Mazitshana (Cput)10/07/2026, 10:10
The increasing generation of solid waste and rising demand for sustainable energy have intensified interest in efficient waste-to-energy technologies. Thermochemical conversion processes, particularly gasification and pyrolysis, provide viable routes for transforming biomass into hydrogen-rich synthesis gas. However, limitations in hydrogen yield and process efficiency remain due to incomplete...
Go to contribution page -
Ernst Ellis (North-West University)10/07/2026, 10:10Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
The search for lightweight materials as replacements for legacy materials used in space exploration has been an ongoing endeavour. In the low Earth orbit range, various threats cause extensive degradation of spacecraft materials. For the consideration of organic materials such as polymers, one of the threats that should be considered is ultraviolet (UV) radiation [1]. The UV radiation...
Go to contribution page -
Paulinah Fasanmi (University of Johannesburg)10/07/2026, 11:00
Lead-free perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have propelled to the forefront of research due to their impressive performance in solar cell applications and their non-toxicity compared to lead-based PSCs. In this study, a heterojunction PSC with the configuration FTO/C-60/CS2TiCl6/CS2AgBiBr6/WSe2/Au was simulated using the SCAP-1D simulation software, combining single and double PSCs. The lead-free...
Go to contribution page -
Prof. Richard Harris (University of the Free State)10/07/2026, 11:00Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
Neuromorphic computing seeks to replicate the adaptive, parallel, and energy-efficient information processing of biological neural systems. Although existing hardware platforms have demonstrated important progress, many remain constrained by the complexity, size, and power demands of conventional transistor-based architectures. This has motivated the search for compact nanoscale devices...
Go to contribution page -
Thokozane Mlotshwa (University of Limpopo)10/07/2026, 11:20Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
Green synthesis of nanomaterials has been on the rise due to the vast availability of resources and potential reduction of harmful chemicals during synthesis and overall reduction to pollutants on the environment. Conversion of biomass waste into useful materials has been one way to fight global warming, reduce pollution and offer sustainable way of industrialisation. In this study, graphene...
Go to contribution page -
Mwende Mbilo (University of Pretoria)10/07/2026, 11:20
Halide double perovskites (HDPs) have emerged as compelling candidates for next-generation optoelectronic applications owing to their tunable band gaps, structural versatility, and environmental compatibility. Despite the known advantages of fluoride-based HDPs, this subclass remains significantly understudied. In this work, we employ density functional theory (DFT), as implemented in Quantum...
Go to contribution page -
Mr Philani Mngomezulu (University of Zululand), Charles Thulani Thethwayo (University of Zululand)10/07/2026, 11:40Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
The detection and monitoring of hazardous gases, including hydrogen sulphide (H₂S), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxide (NO), sulphur dioxide (SO₂), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), are essential for ensuring industrial safety and environmental health. In this study, highly sensitive and selective SnO₂ nanoparticle-based gas sensors were synthesised and characterised...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Ramogohlo Diale-Boshielo (Mintek)10/07/2026, 12:00Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
Fe-Co alloys have attracted much attention as magneto restrictive materials for use in power generators, transformers, motors and generators for aircraft, as well as magnetic shields due to their soft magnetic characteristics. However, B2 FeCo suffers brittleness at room temperature which affects formability. The ternary alloying with BCC refractory metals such as Niobium (Nb) was considered...
Go to contribution page -
Dr Daniel Chilukusha (Mulungushi University)10/07/2026, 12:20Track A - Physics of Condensed Matter and MaterialsOral Presentation
Fermi level pinning at metal-organic interfaces typically restricts
Go to contribution page
post-fabrication tuning of Schottky barrier diodes (SBDs), limiting
their optimization for flexible optoelectronic applications. We
demonstrate that swift heavy ion (SHI) irradiation provides a viable
nanoscale engineering approach to systematically modify interfacial
states and barrier characteristics in... -
Prof. Eamon Scullion (University of Northumbria Newcastle upon Tyne (UK))10/07/2026, 13:30
From its earliest presence in southern African cosmology, where the Sun was revered in San and Nguni traditions as a life-giving and regulating force, to its formal study within the Royal Astronomical Society era of systematic observation, our understanding of the Sun has evolved through a remarkable fusion of culture, geography, and technology. This plenary traces the evolution of solar...
Go to contribution page -
Ishiyaku AbubakarTrack E - Physics for Development, Education and OutreachOral Presentation
What we perceive visually is not always easily reduced to a simple explanatory model. What we “see” depends not only on models of light but also on other aspects of visual cognition. In regard to models of light a number of different models have been developed to describe the complex phenomenon of light. The models are: straight line rays (geometrical optics), waves (electromagnetic...
Go to contribution page -
Adrian Crous (Stellenbosch University, Physics Department)
Laser resonance ionization is a highly sensitive and selective technique used for isolating isotopes via stepwise excitation. Hyperfine splitting of odd isotopes introduces degenerate hyperfine states. In the presence of an external magnetic field these states change their electronic angular momentum in time which can be used to induce transitions that would ordinarily be forbidden by atomic...
Go to contribution page
Choose timezone
Your profile timezone: