Research and development of explosives and propellants over 300 years

17 April 2002, Royal Gunpowder Mills, Waltham Abbey

This landmark, which commemorated the contribution of the Royal Gunpowder Mills site to chemical research over it's 300 year history, took place on the 17 April 2002. The Gunpowder Mills were established in the 1660s and produced explosives until 1947. The site then became a research establishment until its closure in 1991.Amongst other discoveries stemming from research and development at Waltham Abbey were Kevlar, RDX (the explosive used in the bouncing bomb) and the propellants used in ejector seats.

The event was well attended and guests saw a talk by Dr Geoff Hooper on some of the history and research of the site. This was followed by an audio-visual presentation detailing the history of gunpowder and explosives.

A plaque commemorating the event was presented and reads: 

For over 300 years explosives and propellants were developed and produced on this site. Work performed here has been influential in the development of the Bouncing Bomb, Kevlar and Ejector Seat technology. 

Established in the mid-1660s and bought by the Crown in 1787 the Mills had an international reputation for their production methods and quality. By the 20th Century the Mills were producing and researching new explosives and propellants such as cordite and TNT. In 1948 the Mills ceased production but carried out research until 1991.

The plaque presentation