NEW FORM OF GRAPHITE DISCOVERED AND LABORATORY CLOSED

Wanganui Chronicle, 8 November 1950, Page 5

NEW FORM OF GRAPHITE DISCOVERED AND LABORATORY CLOSED

LONDON, Nov. 6.—Fifty scientists, some working on a new form ot graphite of great importance to atomic energy and rocket research, have been told that their laboratory has been closed and that they are not required “until further notice,” says the “Daily Express.” Last night War Department security police took charge of their twostorey laboratory at Battersea, London. At the week-end the scientists received registered letters from the owners Powell Duffryn Research Laboratories—saying the building “will be temporarily closed for reorganisation,” and adding: “All employees will be denied access unless by special written permission given by the secretary.” About 100 other members of the staff have also been excluded. The Powell Duffry firm has discovered a method of making graphite which can be mouled into any shape. Graphite is an essential part of the furnaces making plutonium, the atomic bomb explosive. It is also used for automatic fins which direct the V2 rocket during its flight.