PLAS-LABS DESICCATOR CABINETS

RECEIVE FREE

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Self Indicating Granules

• 2-4mm, 5-10 mesh
• 5kg

VALUED AT $212.86
with the purchase of any Plas-Labs Desiccator

ROWE CODE CS7465

Question:

July 11 marked the 3 year anniversary of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) sending its first images.

Whereas Hubble was designed as a visible light Telescope, JWST is different. What spectroscopy does JWST use?

The answer will be in the next edition of the Rowe Scientific Pty Ltd newsletter.

Did you know the answer to the last quiz question?

The longest election of a Pope took how long, when did it occur, and elected which Pope?
Answer: 1006 days, from 29th November 1268 to 1st September 1271, for the election of Gregory X.
A 2/3rds majority is required to elect a Pope, and the Cardinals at the time were split between French cardinals, who sought to elect a French aligned Pope; and the remaining cardinals, mostly Italian, who were willing to vote for anyone except the French candidate.

The magistrates of the city of Viterbo – getting tired of hosting the congregation – locked the cardinals inside Palazzo dei Papi (cum clave – ‘with key’, giving us the term conclave), then after the first year removed the roof. When that wasn’t sufficient, they cut the Cardinals down to one meal a day, then threatened to limit them with only bread and water. Over this almost 3 year period, three of the electing cardinals died, and one resigned (the resignee himself died just a few weeks after Gregory X was crowned).

One of Gregory X’s first acts as Pope? Issuing the papal bull Ubi periculum, the rules by which future popes would be elected, still used in a modified way to this day.

References:
Norwich, J.J. (2011) ‘The End of the Hohenstaufen’, in Absolute monarchs : a history of the papacy.
New York, New York: Random House. O’Malley, J.W. (2011) A history of the popes: From peter to the present.
Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield Publ. Giana Zampano, "A roofless palace in Italy’s Viterbo hosted the first and longest conclave", Associated Press, May 4, 2025.

SUPPORTING THE RFDS

Thank you for your continued purchases of our Quantum Clean laboratory detergent and special range of pH Buffers. We have reset the target to $42,000 for the 2025 - 26 financial year.

CLIENT OF THE MONTH: JALCO GROUP

In every Newsletter, we acknowledge one of our valuable clients, randomly selected from the computer. This client is offered $100 of goods from a list with their next order, should they wish to avail themselves. In this edition we recognise the Jalco Group, who are Australia’s premier supplier of outsourced manufacturing and filling for the non-food Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector.

Jalco operate five business divisions including a dedicated Creative Centre for Research and Development.

The Laundry and Household Cleaning Division operates the largest independent household liquids and powders manufacturing facility in Australia.

Jalco’s Personal Care division operates two state of the art manufacturing facilities, to produce an extensive range of personal care solutions and cosmetics, as well as a wide array of packaging formats.

The Automotive division manufactures an extensive range of high quality car care and maintenance products.

The Packaging division is a one-stop shop for all of your promotional packaging needs. They utilise the latest technology to rapidly convert concepts into prototypes and polished products.

Rowe Scientific are proud to acknowledge the Jalco Group as one of our clients.

Ensuring Scientific Precision: Servicing Labs Australia-Wide

Reliable maintenance, repair, and calibration services for scientific instruments is now more accessible than ever across all of Australia.

Wherever you are in Australia — from Western Australia to Queensland, Victoria, Tasmania, New South Wales, and South Australia — our dedicated Service Centers are here to keep your equipment performing at its best.

Our qualified technicians provide calibration, repairs, installations, and preventative maintenance for a wide range of laboratory instruments. With a national network, we can offer consistent service standards, fast turnaround times, and access to genuine parts, no matter your location.

Our capabilities extend beyond standard calibration, offering:
✔ Specialized Calibration & Repair – Ensuring accuracy and longevity of lab equipment.
✔ Industry-Specific Solutions – Supporting sectors such as mining, healthcare, environmental testing, and academia.
✔ Fast & Reliable Turnaround – Minimized downtime with efficient service and rapid response times.
✔ On-Site & Off-Site Support – Flexible service options tailored to client needs.

Why Choose Rowe Scientific’s Service Center?
✔ Experienced Technicians – Decades of combined expertise in servicing complex scientific instruments.
✔ Comprehensive Calibration Services – Covering a broad range of analytical and laboratory equipment.
✔ Commitment to Quality & Compliance – Meeting industry regulations and best practices.
✔ Local Support, National Reach – Seamless coordination with our Brisbane, Melbourne, and Perth centers.

Need Urgent Instrument Calibration or Repair?
If your laboratory or facility requires expert service, don’t let faulty equipment slow you down.
Contact one of our Service Centers today and experience the Rowe Scientific commitment to excellence.

Ensuring the accuracy and reliability of your scientific instruments is our priority. Let Rowe Scientific help you maintain excellence in your operations!

Regardless if your instrument is within or out of warranty, we provide professional technical services to diagnose and report on solutions to help keep you running.

EDITH COWAN UNIVERSITY ROWE SCIENTIFIC FOUNDATION RESEARCH FUND 2024

Congratulations to Mr Kurt Macri, the current recipient of the Edith Cowan University, Rowe Scientific Pty Ltd Research Fund for 2024.

(L-R) Mr Kurt Macri, Dr Duncan Wild and Dr Magdalena Wajrak in the new Spectroscopy and Surface Science Research Facility.

Mr Kurt Macri, Masters student, explains to VC, Prof Clare Pollock how the RF Sputtering system is being used to create catalysts for the conversion of carbon dioxide, greenhouse gas to useful molecules, such as ethylene.

CURTIN UNIVERSITY ROWE SCIENTIFIC FOUNDATION METALLURGY SCHOLARSHIP 2025


Congratulations to Mr Lucas Dobrescu, who has been awarded the Rowe Scientific Foundation Metallurgy Scholarship.

In Lucas's own words::
My name is Lucas and I am studying a double degree in Chemical Engineering and Extractive Metallurgy. I have always had an interest in chemical engineering, metallurgy and the mining industry, so being sponsored by a major player in the industry such as Rowe Scientific is a privilege.

Having done two internships at BHP, I have experience in the industry, as well as experience with your company. During my most recent internship at BHP as an intern process engineer at Newman, I gained experience with Rowe Scientific products as I set up a metallurgical lab for the beneficiation plant.

I thank you for the scholarship and the support it brings, allowing me to continue studying my degree and focus on developing myself through my degree and extracurricular activities rather than worrying about financials. I look forward to meeting you at the scholarship ceremony.

Kind regards, Lucas Dobrescu

UNIVERSITY OF ADELAIDE ROWE SCIENTIFIC FOUNDATION VITICULTURE & OENOLOGY SCHOLARSHIP 2025

Congratulations to Ms Lily Porter and Mr Jess Hall, the 2025 recipient of the Rowe Scientific Foundation Viticulture & Oenology Scholarship 2025 at the University of Adelaide.

Ms Lily Porter
In Lily's own words:
I am a first-year student in the Viticulture and Oenology program at the University of Adelaide, and I’m incredibly grateful to have received this scholarship to support my studies. Although I am new to the wine industry, I have a strong passion for chemistry and am fascinated by the science behind the winemaking process.

My goal is to pursue a career in winemaking, both in Australia and overseas, as I’m eager to broaden my understanding of wine and grape varietals from around the world.

I would like to sincerely thank Rowe Scientific for this generous scholarship and the opportunities it has opened up for me. Your support means a great deal.

Mr Jess Hall
In Jess' own words:
My journey with wine began like many others—with a curious sip from my mother’s glass. At the time, I found it revolting. “Yuck, who would ever drink this?” I exclaimed. Her response was always the same: “Give it time.” She was right.

A few years later, I found myself uncertain about which path to pursue. It wasn’t until I met a Bachelor of Viticulture and Oenology student working at Sidewood that everything started to make sense. I listened intently as she explained the fermentation process and the intricacies of the solera system—I was captivated. A degree that combined chemistry, plants, and wine? It felt like the perfect fit.

Little did my younger self know that the drink he once dismissed would become a lifelong passion—and lead me to a degree and community that truly feel like home.

UNIVERSITY OF ADELAIDE ROWE SCIENTIFIC FOUNDATION CHEMISTRY SCHOLARSHIP 2025

Congratulations to Ms Emma Moffatt and Mr Jake Nobel, the 2025 recipient of the Rowe Scientific Foundation Chemistry Scholarship 2025 at the University of Adelaide.

Ms Emma Moffatt
In Emma's own words:
My interest in chemistry was sparked during my SACE studies, particularly in a discussion on the properties of graphene. The notion that, by understanding the 'rules' of chemistry, we can synthesise materials with tailored properties and specific functions struck me as almost fantastical.

At the same time, I was developing a growing interest in politics and sustainability. I began to see how chemistry could be applied to improve quality of life - for example, through advancements in sustainable energy technologies.

Looking ahead, I hope to continue exploring these interests, with the aim of applying my studies in chemistry and physics to fields such as sustainability, materials science, or natural synthesis.

Mr Jake Nobel
In Jake' own words:
I am currently in my final year of a Bachelor’s degree at the University of Adelaide, majoring in chemistry with additional studies in physics. From a young age, I have been passionate about understanding the world around me, and this curiosity has developed into a strong interest in spectroscopy, material properties, photophysics, and quantum mechanics.

During the 2024–2025 summer, I undertook a research placement in a laboratory investigating the use of organic semiconductors for hydrogen production. This was an invaluable experience that introduced me to a fascinating project with real-world applications, and it further inspired my interest in the field.

Following graduation at the end of this year, I hope to continue my journey in research by pursuing an Honours or Master’s degree.

SOUTHERN CROSS UNIVERSITY ROWE SCIENTIFIC FOUNDATION CHEMISTRY SCHOLARSHIP 2025

Congratulations to Mr Benjamin Slater, the 2025 recipient of the Rowe Scientific Foundation Chemistry Scholarship at Griffith University.

In Benjamin's own words:
I am very grateful to have this scholarship to support my research project analysing carbon, nutrient, and heavy metal accumulation in sediments in the Richmond River Catchment.

Thanks to this scholarship, I’ve been able to spend more time collecting and analysing samples than would otherwise be possible.

My hope is that this project will provide valuable insights into the history of pollution in the catchment and can help inform management strategies for the catchment in the future.

THE UNIVERSITY OF SYDNEY ROWE SCIENTIFIC FOUNDATION CHEMISTRY SCHOLARSHIP 2024
The following two students are the 2024 winners of the annual Rowe Scientific Pty Ltd Chemistry scholarships at The University of Sydney.

Ms Sophie Fletcher
In Sophie' own words:

I was delighted when I found out I received this scholarship. It was a pleasant surprise that I was being recognised for my studies in chemistry, and with a financial prize that would support me through another year of study. I felt as though my passion for the subject and my hard work was being rewarded.

My third year of study was filled with many amazing opportunities to explore what future avenues are available for me in chemistry. With help from lecturers and mentors, I have been inspired to push myself further in planning my honours project and to seek out new experiences.

I was able to participate in a special tour of ANSTO facilities which sparked my interest and pushed me to organise an honours project that would allow me to work jointly with ANSTO and USYD.

In 2024, I was also able to retain HD averages for both semesters at university, as I now have throughout all of my studies thus far. The support that the scholarship money provides me means that I do not have to work excessive hours during the academic year and am able to prioritise my studies without worrying about finances.

I am extremely excited to be commencing my honours year in Chemistry this year at ANSTO. I have the opportunity to work at the Lucas Heights campus to research crystalline structures of uranium oxides with a group of enthusiastic researchers and to learn many new skills.

I also have the amazing opportunity to run experiments at the Synchrotron in Melbourne in late February. I am excited to fully immerse myself in research and also get some experience demonstrating labs for first year students.

I would love to enter into research, whether that is in a university space or government job. As much as I love learning new challenging concepts, I also love working in groups towards a common goal. I hope to be able to work and travel with research and incorporate teaching into my work.

Ms Jessica Ellwood
Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Advanced Studies (Chemistry Major, Medicinal Chemistry Major). Graduating at the end of November 2025

MONASH UNIVERSITY ROWE SCIENTIFIC FOUNDATION SCHOOL OF CHEMISTRY AWARDS (SEMESTER 1, 2025)
Congratulations to the following recipients of the Rowe Scientific Foundation School of Chemistry Awards (Semester 1, 2025). Well done to you all.

Coller McKinnon Wilson Prize
CHM1011 Chemistry
Ms Laila van Wyk

In Laila's own words:

Beautiful.
If you asked me to describe chemistry in one word, I would say beautiful. Not complicated or confusing (even though it can be both of those things). Beautiful because it has introduced me to a world of contradictions, in which the unseeable can be seen and laws have exceptions. A world that is ever changing and evolving and yet has remained the same since the beginning of time. Over the twelve weeks of this unit, we have explored topics ranging from bonding to thermodynamics to electronic configuration. And as we have progressed, the small mysteries of quotidian life have been revealed to me. The simple act of ice floating in water has become truly something to marvel at. It is the outward manifestation of billions upon billions of atoms working together in perfect harmony.

CHM1011 has given me a new lens through which to view the world, an appreciation for the microscopic, without which the macroscopic could never exist. In a way, it has given me hope, for in times of uncertainty there will always be one thing I can be certain about - chemistry.

Jackson Prize
CHM1051
Chemistry I Advanced
Mr Louie Allen

In Louie's own words:

CHM1051 was undoubtedly my favourite unit of the semester. The lecturers were fun, passionate and inspiring. Labs were interesting and stimulating. The four hours did not feel as long as they were. But of course, it is the content I loved most. The first half of the unit completely revolutionised my understanding of molecules and bonding.

Understanding molecular orbital theory and valence bond theory felt enlightening in comparison to the more superficial understanding I was given in High School. It felt refreshing, as if I was uncovering a secret about the universe that I hadn’t imagined I would find. As for the second half of the unit, I studied my favourite topic in chemistry; Physical Chemistry. Delving into Thermodynamics, Equilibria and Kinetics hadn’t ever felt so exciting.

RFC Brown Prize
CHM2911 Inorganic and Organic Chemistry
Ms Uyen Pham

In Uyen's own words:

I’ve always loved chemistry for how it explains what’s happening behind the scenes in everyday life, but CHM2911 really brought it to life for me. This unit didn’t just focus on theory, but it showed how synthetic chemistry is used in the real world, from making cosmetics to solving industrial challenges. Seeing how reactions we learn on paper can be scaled up to create something people use daily made everything feel more meaningful and exciting.

What really inspired me was how much creativity is involved in synthesis. Planning reaction steps, troubleshooting experiments, and thinking about how to improve yields. It felt like solving a puzzle with a purpose. The hands-on labs focus of CHM2911 made me realise how much I enjoy this side of chemistry. I found the whole unit super engaging, and it made me start thinking about how synthetic chemistry could be used to help people. It’s definitely made me want to keep exploring where this kind of work could lead.

Hart McKelvie Beckett Prize
CHM2951 Environmental Chemistry – Water
Ms Elaine Marques

In Elaine's own words:

Although my initial interest in chemistry was primarily focussed on reaction mechanisms and unravelling the intricacies of synthetic processes CHM2951 has opened my eyes to the complicated chemical systems and processes present in the world’s aquatic environments. During my time studying this unit I developed an appreciation for the complexities of the delicate, highly dynamic chemical relationships which govern a large aspect of our natural environment.

Much of aquatic chemistry is a variety of different cycling systems that all link to and affect each other, a small change in one reactant can have drastic effects on a variety of plant and animal species and various other chemical equilibria. CHM2951 shifted my perspective when it comes to chemistry from one focussed entirely on the details of the state of a single molecule or reaction to one that also has an appreciation for the macroscopic effects of chemistry and the bigger picture too further deepening my passion for chemistry by exposing me to a field that I was previously less familiar with.

Burden Prize
CHM3960 Environmental Chemistry
Ms Hayley Lambert

In Hayley's own words:

I have always had a strong passion for chemistry, drawn to the way it helps us understand the world at a molecular level. This unit, Environmental Chemistry, has deepened that passion by connecting chemistry to real-world challenges and practical applications. I particularly enjoyed the focus on water chemistry, as it highlighted how chemical principles are used to assess and protect one of our most vital resources. Learning about water treatment, contamination, and nutrient cycles made the content feel directly relevant to everyday life and environmental health.

Soil chemistry also captured my interest, especially in the context of agriculture. It was fascinating to explore how soil composition, pH, and chemical interactions affect crop growth and sustainability. What made this unit especially inspiring was its strong link to real industry roles in environmental monitoring, water quality management, and sustainable agriculture. It helped me see how chemistry can directly impact communities and ecosystems, reaffirming my desire to pursue a career where I can apply chemistry to solve environmental problems.

Youatt Prize
CHM3930 Medicinal Chemistry
Ms Joanna Boak

In Joanna's own words:

I never thought I would follow chemistry to this extent back in high school - biology was my bread and butter. Majoring in chemistry was more of a consequence than an active choice; my science options were limited due to my biomedical degree. I've always enjoyed the subject, but my passion grew immensely when I was thrust into an actual lab (having completed my VCE during covid at home) and learnt how concepts such as entropy command the workings of the entire universe in first year. From that point, learning chemistry has been one of my greatest sources of pride and wonder.

CHM3930 combines two of my favourite disciplines, biology and chemistry, stretching my knowledge further than I knew possible. Drugs, biochemical pathways, enzyme-substrate complexes. Biology yes, but on a more intricate level it is all chemistry. Not to mention that the faculty members and students I've met on my chemistry journey have been some of the most joyful and intelligent people I've had the pleasure of encountering. It reminds me that we are all involved in something bigger, and on many levels, smaller, than we could ever imagine.

Pullen Heffernan Prize
CHM3911 Advanced Physical Chemistry
Mr Samuel Adams

In Samuel's own words:

My fascination in chemistry has always been its ability to unveil the hidden meanings behind things we take for granted every day, and this unit has delved into the absolute deepest causes for the most interesting properties. From WHY kinetics and thermodynamics present themselves in the way they do, to properties such as droplet formations and surfactant capabilities I hadn't even considered before, I find myself explaining what I believe are some of the most fascinating concepts to my family (despite their little care for such details).

I believe my passion for both the physical and computational aspects of this course is demonstrated in my consistent HD grades, in which I have dedicated great time to researching every lab topic and ensured deep comprehension of every aspect of the course.

I've been thrilled to find myself consistently applying concepts I've learnt here in other chemistry units, and am excited to take these skills further into deeper study and eventually into the industry itself.

Dickson Prize
CHM3941 Advanced Inorganic Chemistry
Ms Sarah Prendergast

In Sarah's own words:

My passion for chemistry was invigorated by my CHM3941 experience. It showcased the many ways chemists have developed to better understand the world around us, through metals and their unique/amazing properties. I never knew how complex the world of organometallic chemistry could be but this unit broke it down into very accessible areas that opened my eyes to the possibilities of future career pathways. It allowed me to finally understand the nuanced approaches to reactions and inspired me to delve deeper.

The lecturers and perfect planning of the unit showed me just how easy it is to do something your passionate about and allowed me to demonstrate my own enthusiasm in return. This unit taught me not just about chemistry but about the world around me. This was emphasised by our lab work, with each experiment being useful and relevant, to skills we will need if we pursue industry or research. It has extended my love of chemistry from inside the classroom, to outside it, and to the world around me. It has ignited the flame of curiosity, that I now know, will not be extinguished.

SCIENCE TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION - ROWE SCIENTIFIC PTY LTD ANNUAL PRIZES
Congratulations to the students who were awarded Rowe Scientific Pty. Ltd. sponsored prizes, at the 2024 awards. The following are just a few of the many award categories, chosen at random.

SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Rowe Scientific Emerging Talent Award
Prescott College Southern
Ms Aurora Templer

Ms Aurora Templer.

Project: The Event Horizon

This interactive model demonstrates the structure and behaviour of a black hole, highlighting the accretion disk, event horizon and singularity. Using creative design and engineering, the student has built a hands-on representation that shows how gravity affects matter and light. Ball bearings simulate orbiting particles, accelerating as they approach the centre—bringing complex astrophysical concepts to life in a visually striking and scientifically accurate way.

NORTHERN TERRITORY
Middle School Student Award and Rural Student Award
Good Shepherd Lutheran College
Ms Subhneet Kaur

Ms Subhneet Kaur and Hon. Jo Hersey, Minister for Education and Training.

Her exceptional work placed her first in three individual categories—Scientific Communication Multimedia, Scientific Communication Poster, and STEM in the NT—and she claimed second place in the Scientific Communication Video category. A dedicated participant of this competition over several years, Subhneet has consistently impressed, winning numerous accolades and emerging as one of the Northern Territory’s most promising young scientific minds.

TASMANIA
Science Teachers Association of Tasmania - First Place
Mr Charles Bartel

Mr Charles Bartel.

Project: Habitat Loss

The primary reason for many beloved animal species becoming endangered and in some cases extinct is because of habitat loss and part of the reason habitats are being destroyed is due to humans chopping down trees, creating buildings and cities, exploiting resources, environmental laws in parliament not being strong enough to stop the exploitation of the environment, and simply thinking of habitats as a second priority regardless of how imperative having habitats for animals is, particularly endangered animals.

I have learned the importance of animal species safety due to the influence of my parents/school, with the intention of eventually being the cogwheel in the machine of a community that will one day have the ability to prevent the complete extinction of our beloved Australian animals.

For the past century, it has made itself pretty clear why this is a problem and why not enough people care about it, this being stats and news stories coming out outlining that habitat loss claims millions of animal lives each year. This also happens due to governments keeping this second priority because it would be a long-term project and the effects of not protecting our environment is a problem for them now. I have prepared a solution that solves this issue by putting matters into our own hands.

VICTORIA
Major Bursary, Experimental Research
Viewbank College
Mr Shayan Choudry

Mr Shayan Choudry.

Project: Mapping Biodiversity

This study examines the survival and adaptation of species identified by four Aboriginal groups and Torres Strait Islanders across regions of Australia, comparing historical records with contemporary data. Utilizing traditional ecological knowledge from rock art and oral histories alongside modern scientific observations, the study highlights how most species have adapted to environmental challenges. Methods involved comparing documented species from ancient art to their status in 2024. Results show that while many species have survived, some, like the thylacine, are extinct. Conservation efforts have successfully reintroduced some species. Future research should involve more Indigenous groups, advanced data collection, and statistical analysis to further understand species adaptation and promote effective conservation strategies.

QUEENSLAND
Major Award
Ipswich Girls' Grammar School
Ms Maruyi Kowasaki

Ms Maruyi Kowasaki and Dr Mary Rafter. 

Project: The Space Gun

This investigation explores the effect of varying the number of loops in a solenoid on the landing distance of a mass propelled by a neodymium magnet.

The study utilizes a mass driver setup, where a plastic bead is projected by a magnet partially inserted into a solenoid. The solenoid’s magnetic field, induced by a 4V current, interacts with the magnet, propelling the bead. The independent variable is the number of loops in the solenoid (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600), while the dependent variable is the landing distance of the bead.
 
Results indicate a negative correlation between the number of loops and the landing distance. As the number of loops increases, resistance in the solenoid increases, reducing the current and consequently the magnetic field strength. This weaker magnetic field results in a decreased force on the magnet, leading to shorter landing distances for the bead. The findings support the hypothesis that increasing the number of loops decreases the landing distance due to reduced magnetic interaction.

This study provides insights into optimising mass driver designs for applications such as space launches, where minimising resistance and maximising current are crucial for achieving higher velocities.

ACT
SEAACT First place - Inquiry & Ingenuity
Lyneham High School, Year 9
Ms Emma Zhang

Ms Emma Zhang and Dr Bjorn Sturmberg.

Omega-type metamaterial with low-loss design elements and a negative refractive index at the 21-cm line

With their atypical electromagnetic properties, metamaterials are now increasingly developed in terms of real-world applications. Specifically, their negative refractive index holds a number of potential advantages for imaging in radio astronomy. In this investigation, the possibility of a lens at the frequency of the hydrogen line was assessed. The design considered here was the omega-type metamaterial developed by Zhang et al. (2008); however, substrates were removed from the model, and instead vacuum was considered as the dielectric, a loss-minimising element demonstrated by Ehrenberg et al (2012).

The tests of refractive index were empirical, based on numerical calculations of permittivity and permeability conducted using a mathematical python program. The results indicated that the ideal refractive index of –1.5 was indeed achievable at 1.42 GHz with adjustments to the parameters of the omega-rings. However, the applicability of the suggested design must be further verified using more comprehensive computer simulations and experiments with prototypes.

NEW SOUTH WALES
STANSW, Innovation Grand Award & Young Scientist of the Year
Barker College, Year 12
Mr Tim Wilson

Tim Wilson and Dr Lauren McKnight.

Project: Cuddle and Comfort Chimp: An innovative soft robotic sleep aid

Sleep disorders significantly affect young people, harming mental health, academic performance, and impacting long-term health. Existing solutions, such as sleep trackers or distraction devices like white noise, do not address core contributors to sleep difficulties.

Few sleep solutions employ robotics; the Somnox sleep robot, while novel, has proven clinically ineffective. This project introduces the Cuddle & Comfort Chimp, a soft robotic sleep aid designed to assist children and adolescents in falling asleep faster and reducing stress associated with insomnia. The device combines a biomimetic compliant breathing motion, with arms that gently hug the user, providing tactile reassurance. The chimp uses a CO2 sensor and feedback algorithm to sync with the user’s breathing, helping regulate it. A force sensor enables responsive hugs and a control panel offers easy access to adjustments. Made with compliant pneumatic systems and soft materials, it is quiet, ergonomic and comforting.

Independent testing of device functions has validated their effectiveness, with preliminary device testing reinforcing its potential to deliver a calming effect, thus aiding sleep. The Cuddle & Comfort Chimp provides an alternative sleep-assistance technology by implementing validated physiological interventions in a soft robotic design.

NEW SOUTH WALES

Dear Clients,

We are well past the halfway point of 2025 and the sunlight hours are getting longer, although that certainly has not stopped it being a chilly winter!

August brings around National Science Week 2025, celebrating all things Science and Technology, and it is a great opportunity to learn more about other fields of science and celebrate scientific achievements, be they your own or your colleague's! Late August will also see us exhibiting at the combined IUPAC 32nd International Symposium on the Chemistry of Natural Products / 12th International Congress on Biodiversity at UNSW from 25/8-28/8, so come see us for a chat and maybe even some free Rowe Scientific merchandise.

We also encourage our clients to start thinking about their needs over the coming months, and to plan ahead wherever possible. The silly season will be here before we know it; and this can result in longer lead times for items as freight congestion causes significant delays both locally and overseas. One way to ensure availability of your core chemicals and consumables is to set up a forward order for supply of the items you use regularly. Please speak to your account manager, or to our friendly sales team to discuss this further.

We look forward to speaking with you soon.

Best wishes from the NSW team::
Hayden, Ari, Cindy, Dylan, John, Kai, Sheema and Zena.

QUEENSLAND

Dear Clients,

Another financial year has passed and despite some challenges thrown up at us by the wet weather, we have had another successful year of growth.

On behalf of the Queensland team, thank you for your continued support - we couldn’t have achieved this without you.

A quick reminder: Rohit Raj, our Service Technician, has now been with us for six months and is ready to assist with any instrument repairs or routine servicing you may require. Please don’t hesitate to contact Rohit by phone or email if we can help.

Another edition of the Rowe Scientific Lablikes has been published. Let us know if you haven’t already been emailed a copy. Alternatively you can download it from our web site or this link.

From the Queensland Team:
Anthony, Brian, Cherise, Dan, George, Jessy, Josephine, Kelly, Martin, Richard, Rohit, Steve and Tim.

SOUTH AUSTRALIA &
NORTHERN TERRITORY

Dear Clients,

Welcome to this edition of the Rowe Newsletter.

Hopefully you all have been keeping safe and warm so far throughout the colder months.

I would like to thank all our clients for their support during the 2024/25 Financial Year and look forward to Rowe Scientific continuing to help with all your laboratory needs through 2025/26.

Also, to our wonderful Northern Territory clients I visited recently, thank you for your time and allowing me to visit. You put on some wonderful weather as well as some spectacular sites on Territory Day.

Rowe Scientific will be attending the following trade shows in October:
   • RACI Symposium on October 3rd
   • SAHMRI Symposium on October 7th
   • SAHMRI Research Showcase on October 20th

We will have a trade exhibit table at each of these events showcasing our vast range of products. If you intend to attend any of these please come and say hello.

Rowe Scientific are constantly working with clients to produce customised solutions, such as accurate strength chemical calibration solutions, buffers, titration solutions and dilutions to name a few. If you would like to see if we can save you some time in preparing any solutions you are making up now to your specific requirements, please contact the Adelaide office directly, or your account manager.

As always, our dedicated team are here to assist you with any enquiries you may have.

All the best from:
Chris, Aarushi, Dani, Joanne, Leonie, Liam, Luke, Michael, Paula and Samuel.

VICTORIA & TASMANIA

Dear Clients,

HAPPY NEW FINANCIAL YEAR !

Thank you Victoria and Tasmania for your support through 2025 so far.

On the staffing front, August sees Louise back in the office from Maternity leave, we hope young James doesn’t mind too much sharing his mum with Rowe Scientific. Meanwhile on the sports fields we are heading into a busy time – the British Rugby Lions are here to challenge the Wallabies, our Cricket Team has just beaten the West Indies and will be playing for the Ashes soon, PLUS we are getting to the pointy end of the footy season.

LABLIKES 22 has been out for a few weeks now, if you have not already taken advantage of the limited stock specials, please give us a ring.

What’s NEW – please take a look at our website. MN have a range of PFAS free vials and caps, Ohaus have a new range of Moisture balances and Velp’s updated range of Overhead stirrers and Hotplate/Stirrers gives you plenty of options.

Don’t forget – our service department is very resourceful and may be able to get a few extra years’ service out of that instrument you do not want to replace yet. PLUS if your CRM’s and reference cells need to be recertified – we are your STARNA agent and will get these done in a jiffy.

Hope to hear from you soon.

Garry, Adam, Amanda, Chris, Christine, Darren, Hoa, Juan, Louise, Mango, Paul, Saham and Tharushi.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Dear Clients,

As life progresses, we see familiar faces depart and new faces arrive.

As you read, Abigail will be on maternity leave, celebrating the birth of her first, and we have already booked her return to work date!

We are joined by Rachel in Customer Service, who has years of experience in dealing with your enquiries, please give her a call.

Shortly after publishing, we will also be joined by Joel Rudrum, a site based Chemist making the move into Sales. We will train Joel on our internal processes before releasing him to call on and assist you in the field.

We also welcome further internal colleagues, as we work to provide you with the scienftific items you need to do your work.

Peter Sommers and the Western Australian Team.

South Australia
& NT

Queensland

Victoria & Tasmania

New South Wales

Western Australia

Ph: (08) 8186 0523
rowesa@rowe.com.au

Ph: (07) 3376 9411
roweqld@rowe.com.au

Ph: (03) 9701 7077
rowevic@rowe.com.au

Ph: (02) 9603 1205
rowensw@rowe.com.au

Ph: (08) 9302 1911
rowewa@rowe.com.au

Rowe Scientific Pty Ltd
www.rowe.com.au

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