The Centre for Bulk Solids and Particulate Technologies (CBSPT) is actively involved in both fundamental and applied research on a range of problems associated with bulk solids and particulate technology. Research areas include storage, flow, processing and transportation of bulk solids. CBSPT also provides specialist courses for industry through its professional development programs.

CBSPT is a world leader in applied and fundamental bulk solids handling research. In 1995, it was established and supported by the Australian Research Council (ARC) as one of a prestigious handful of national Key Centres of Teaching and Research between the University of Newcastle and the University of Wollongong.

The Newcastle node of CBSPT is located at the University in the Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources (NIER). It continues its research programs through competitive research grants from such bodies as the Australian Research Council and Industry and currently supports Higher Degree by Research (HDR) and Bachelor Degree level final year students, both nationally and internationally. The Centre's Newcastle Node is strongly linked with TUNRA Bulk Solids and the College of Engineering, Science and Environment at the University of Newcastle. The mission of the Centre is to pursue excellence in teaching, research and industrial development in bulk solids handling and particulate technologies.

The CBSPT is actively involved in both fundamental and applied research on a range of problems associated with bulk solids & particulate technology. The research areas include storage, flow, processing and transportation of bulk solids. In addition to the research activities, CBSPT conducts specialised education strands in bulk solids and particulate technologies for:

  • Bachelor of Engineering undergraduate degrees
  • Supervision for candidates enrolled in research higher degrees such as Masters and PhD programs
  • Short intensive professional development programs across a broad range of bulk solids handling and particulate technology topics.

The Centre has an ongoing commitment to continuing professional development courses in Bulk Solids Handling in Australia as well as other countries; the latter includes Germany, South Africa, Brazil, China, the USA, UK, Norway, Turkey, and India.

The professional development and recognition of the discipline of Bulk Solids Handling in Australia and indeed, world-wide, is due in no small way to the contribution of the University of Newcastle through CBSPT and TUNRA Bulk Solids. There is no doubt that Australia is setting the standard as the leading country of the world in the research, industrial practice and professional development of the discipline of bulk solids handling. CBSPT operates at the cutting edge of bulk solids and particulate knowledge through a world-recognised applied research and development program and is uniquely equipped to assist processors and manufacturers with industrial troubleshooting, technical assistance and education.