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Miscellaneous
Advice was given on a variety of other matters not falling under the preceding sections
of this report, and some examples of these are given below :—
(a) With a view to providing guidance on the construction of new athletic
grounds, surfacing materials from several running tracks were examined, the grading
of the different sized particles being of particular interest.
(b) Fly ash, from the combustion of pulverised fuel at power stations, was
examined and it was considered that it could be used for filling disused chalk workings
without adversely affecting any local water supplies.
(c) An investigation was begun on the effects of drying wool, cotton and
synthetic fabrics in gas heated and electric drying cabinets.
(d) A number of recommendations was made on such varied subjects as the use
of insecticides and fungicides, the cleaning of glasshouses, imitation marble and
fireman's gloves, the staining of wood for architectural purposes, court marking
paint for a drill yard, the deterioration of electric cable, the sterilisation of sand in
a play pit for children, thermal insulating material for boiler installations, anti-freeze
solution, creosote, tar and glue.
Both the Scientific Adviser and his deputy served on a wide variety of committees
and welcomed many distinguished visitors to the laboratories.
The staff numbered 59 which included 26 science graduates, 28 ancillary staff and
five in the clerical section.
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