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an exorbitant price, the licences of the establishments were revoked, after a public
enquiry. Evidence as to the samples was given by the deputy chemist, Dr. S. C.
Burgess.
Experiments were made on the staining of wood and subsequent varnishing.
The wood could not be stained uniformly because absorption depended on grain
pattern ; the penetration was of the order of 1/100th inch and also the colours faded
to some extent. The most satisfactory dyes were established and also the most
suitable type of varnish for protection.
The failure of an L.C.C. coat badge was investigated and it was established that,
after two washes, the laundry in question had caused the severe chemical damage.
Special tests were devised for evaluating polychromatic and pigmented finishes
for tubular steel school furniture as regards probable durability in use.
Earthenware and vitrified crockery were compared for strength and other
aspects for general use in the service. In some samples of vitrified ware examined it
was found possible to dissolve 1.5 milligrams of lead from a cup.
The staining of cutlery was investigated and it was found that all detergents, soda
and bicarbonate, and even mains water could, under some circumstances, stain
the nickel-silver ware generally used in the service. It was established that rapid
drying was essential and the introduction of metallic aluminium (clean milk bottle
tops) in the alkaline wash water and even in the rinsing water materially assisted in
obviating the trouble.
The cleaning of the glass of greenhouses having presented some difficulty, an
investigation was made of the nature of the deposit and a rapid and simple method of
operation was devised.
Samples of soil were examined for acidity and plant nutrient status for horticultural
purposes.
Amongst many other problems investigated may be mentioned such articles as tree
wound-dressings; combs, plastic and horn; potting sand; oil damage to trees; pig
food; metro-grate; pipettes, burettes and chemical equipment for schools; staining of
fabric by the sand in a recreation ground, and the chemical purity and safety of powder
paints used by young children in schools.
Visits to the laboratories
As usual, during the year many visitors were welcomed to inspect and discuss the
work of the Chemical Branch in its laboratories at county hall and the two outfall
works.
The largest organised visit to the Headquarters laboratory was made by a party of
70 members of the Science Masters Association. The visitors were shown a coloured
film with sound commentary dealing with some aspects of the work of the Northern
Outfall Works and the laboratory there, after which they were conducted around the
county hall laboratories where they were given talks and demonstrations on various
aspects of the work by specialist members of the staff.
Instructional visits were made by parties of post-entry trainees, and senior boys from
St. Marylebone School and St. Paul's School. Other visitors to the laboratories included
a party from the London branch of the Institute of Housing, professional officers from
Government departments and research establishments and from other local authorities,
and meals supervisors from the Restaurants and Catering Department. Overseas visitors
from Australia, Austria, Eire, Israel and Portugal were also welcomed.
Committees
During 1953 the Chemist-in-Chief, in addition to attending committees of the
Council as required, was a member, either as a Council representative or with official
sanction, of the following committees convened under the auspices of other bodies :