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  • science
  1. Our site
  2. Science

Science

Science

The manufacture of gunpowder began as a black art, although it required a careful skill.  It was not until the 19th century that procedures and processes were refined to produce a reliable product with the best results.  This was achieved with a growing understanding and application of the science behind the technology.  Indeed the key to the success of the Royal Gunpowder Mills was the consistent use of the scientific method.  

At the heart of the scientific method is careful observation, carefully designed experiments, accurately recording results and the drawing of conclusions. The Royal Gunpowder Mills successfully used these principles to move away from the days of alchemy and guesswork to provide a robust systematic approach to problem solving and the development of new technologies and materials.

The work of the Royal Gunpowder Mills has appeared many in reputable journals such as New Scientist and Scientific American. There is even a reference to the site on the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) website archive for work done on sonic boom simulation charges.

Science for Children

Come and see mad Professor Nitrate in the Mad Lab where they will demonstrate hands-on experiments in a fun and practical way. See our rocket vault, which showcases many examples of the technological mechanisms developed at Waltham Abbey and there are guides on hand to answer any questions.

Interact with Science

Some of the scientists who worked at the Royal Gunpowder Mills are now active volunteers.  They relish any opportunity to explain the exhibits or describe their work in decades past.  So why not come along and put them to the test.  You've heard the phrase "It's not Rocket Science,"  Well here at the Rocket Vault, it really is!

Ballistic Pendula

Ballistic Pendula

The first ballistic pendulum was invented in 1742 by Benjamin Robbins to measure the explosive energy of gunpowder. There are 2 pendula (or pendulums) on display, which were donated by the Health & Safety Establishment at Buxton... Read more

Published: 4th July, 2019

Author: Ian MacFarlane

Related topics:
  • Science
The Armoury

The Armoury

Two shots a minute from a musket three hundred years ago, to over fifteen hundred from a WW2 machine gun, the history of firearms is a story of amazing technical development and inventiveness. Come and explore our collection of over 300 historic firearms. Read more

Published: 21st June, 2018

Updated: 9th May, 2020

Author: Emily Cross

Related topics:
  • Science
  • History
  • Exhibitions
The Rocket Vault

The Rocket Vault

Tankbusters, rocket motors and anti-aircraft missiles were all on Waltham Abbey's top-secret to-do list. This kind of work gave rise to the Waxwing project: the rocket which first fired British satellites into earth's orbit. Read more

Published: 21st June, 2018

Updated: 21st June, 2019

Author: Emily Cross

Related topics:
  • Science
  • Exhibitions
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  • Help Royal Gunpowder Mills!

    Help Royal Gunpowder Mills!

    Coronavirus Survival Appeal The Royal Gunpowder Mills is closed until further notice and as a result, we have lost our essential visitor incomes and face a serious funding gap. Please donate to help continue our Charity’s work.

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    We open for events and group tours. Our event opening times vary - Please check before you travel. You'll find our upcoming open days and events at What's On.

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  • Professor Nitrate's Mad Lab

    Professor Nitrate's Mad Lab

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Julie's Nature Column - Spring 2020

Julie's Nature Column - Spring 2020

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Published: 18th March, 2019

Updated: 24th April, 2020

Author: Julie Matthews

RGM Historic Book Reprint Series

RGM Historic Book Reprint Series

The Historic Reprint Series are Facsimilie reprints of books having historical relevance to the development and manufacture of gunpowder at the Royal Gunpowder Mills. Read more

Published: 19th July, 2019

Updated: 30th August, 2019

Author: Ian MacFarlane

Related topics:
  • Heritage
  • Book Shop
RGM Book Series

RGM Book Series

Books about the history of the Royal Gunpowder Mills written by Archive Volunteers. Read more

Published: 19th July, 2019

Updated: 29th January, 2020

Author: Ian MacFarlane

Related topics:
  • Heritage
  • Book Shop
Help Royal Gunpowder Mills!

Help Royal Gunpowder Mills!

Coronavirus Survival Appeal The Royal Gunpowder Mills is closed until further notice and as a result, we have lost our essential visitor incomes and face a serious funding gap. Please donate to help continue our Charity’s work. Read more

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Published: 17th June, 2020

Updated: 9th August, 2020

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Published: 13th October, 2020

Author: Ian MacFarlane

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Contact us

Royal Gunpowder Mills,
Beaulieu Drive,
Waltham Abbey,
Essex, EN9 1JY
United Kingdom

[email protected]
01992 707370

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Royal Gunpowder Mills is a charity registered in England and Wales (No. 1062968).