NPL Open House

from 2 pm to 8 pm

Tuesday 17 May 2016

Open House | Visitor Guide

Cover image:A one kilogram sphere of pure, single-crystal silicon being weighed on NPL’s primary mass comparator. In the future this will be one of the ways we can define the exact mass of one kilogram.

Find out more in laboratory G7-L18

Welcome to the National Physical Laboratory

I’m delighted to welcome you to the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), the UK’s home of measurement and a centre for world-leading scientific research.

Since joining NPL in September 2015 I’ve been amazed at the quality and breadth of the science taking place here, and I’m immensely proud of our outstanding scientists. Today is a great opportunity for us to share our exciting work with you.

NPL is the UK’s National Measurement Institute. We’re responsible for making sure that all measurements

made in the UK can be traced back to highly accurate standards, ensuring consistency and reliability. We

also use our measurement expertise to tackle some of society’s biggest challenges, from understanding climate change to fighting cancer. For instance, we’re helping to ensure that the satellites monitoring

climate make accurate measurements, and we’re developing new ultrasound scanners for safer, lower-cost and more effective screening of breast cancer.

20th May is World Metrology Day (metrology is the science of measurement), and this year’s theme is ‘Measurements in a Dynamic World’. I hope today you’ll gain an appreciation for how important, fascinating

and dynamic measurement is. You’ll have the chance to see inside our laboratories and meet our scientists to get a taste of the work we do. You’ll see how we accurately measure many aspects of the world around us, from time and temperature, to cosmic rays and climate change. You’ll learn about our cutting-edge research in emerging fields like nanotechnology, smart textiles and 3D printing. You’ll see what it’s like to work and study at NPL. And most importantly, you’ll see how our work makes a difference to people’s lives.

I hope, like me, you will leave amazed at what we do.

Dr Peter ThompsonChief Executive Officer

What is NPL?

The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a scientific institute that conducts world-leading research into measurement science and technology.

We were founded by the UK Government in 1900, and were originally based in Bushy House. Since then we’ve grown to fill nearly 20 buildings on our Teddington campus, and we also have sites in Huddersfield and at Wraysbury Reservoir. The buildings you’ll visit today contain 388 of the world’s most advanced measurement laboratories, where over 500 scientists perform cutting-edge research.

www.npl.co.uk/what-is-npl

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What does NPL do?

NPL maintains and develops the UK’s national measurement standards, which are very accurate definitions of measurements, like the length of a second, or the exact mass of a kilogram.

These measurement standards are the foundation of the National Measurement System, which makes sure all measurements made in the UK are consistent and are based on the standards. This ensures that a second, or a kilogram, or any other measurement is the same throughout the UK, no matter who makes the measurement or where they make it.

www.npl.co.uk

We also conduct research to help make sure international measurement standards are accurate and consistent (see the pages on the SI base units in this booklet for more information). And we use our expertise to offer commercial and scientific services; our research is used in a huge range of fields, from monitoring climate change from space, to fighting cancer with particle accelerators.

The work of NPL has a positive impact on the real world. Our standards and research help support national and international trade, consumer confidence, health and safety, and scientific and technological innovation.

On 1 January 2015, NPL became a government company when ownership was transferred from Serco to the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS). Since then BIS and NPL have entered into a strategic partnership with the University of Strathclyde and the University of Surrey to develop joint research centres and to support the development of the postgraduate institute.

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What is an SI base unit?

All measurements are made using units, like 2 cm, 80 kg, or 25 °C – otherwise a measurement is incomplete and doesn’t make sense.

Although there are many units of measurement, the International System of Units (SI) has seven base units, on which all other measurement units are founded.

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The seven SI base units are:

Metre (m) the base unit of length

Kilogram (kg) the base unit of mass

Second (s) the base unit of time

Kelvin (K) the base unit of temperature

Ampere (A) the base unit of electric current (the movement of electrical charge in a wire)

Mole (mol) the base unit of the amount of substance

Candela (cd) the base unit of luminous intensity of a light source (the brightness of a light to the human eye)

The base units are used throughout the UK and the world for trade, industry, science, and health and safety. Their definitions are globally consistent, to ensure that all measurements made anywhere in the world use exactly the same units.

Although each base unit is defined with incredible precision, the definition of the base units is an active research topic, and NPL is continually involved in research to create new ways to more accurately define these units.

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About your visit

This guide should provide you with all the information you need to enjoy your visit to NPL.

To the best of our knowledge all information in this booklet was accurate at the time of printing. Any details that have changed since will be communicated to you on the day of the Open House.

As we are a working laboratory, please appreciate that we are not able to open up all of our facilities. For your own safety, do not enter any restricted areas.

The lifts are located behind the main reception in module 16 and also between modules 12 and 13.

There are no guided tours.

You are welcome to visit as many or as few of the open laboratories as you like. It is a considerable distance from one end of the building to the other so you will not manage to see everything. The descriptions on the following pages will help you decide which facilities to visit, depending on your interests.

A programme of short talks can be found on page 32. These will all take place in the lecture theatre, module 16, first floor. Microwave Anechoic Chamber

Module 1 Ground floor (G1-L16)

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The staff restaurant in module 15, first floor, will be open to purchase snacks and drinks, and a pop-café at the end of module 1, first floor, will be serving hot drinks from 2 pm until 7.30 pm. Please do not take any food or drink away from the restaurant or pop-up café.

Please note that some laboratories are not safe for pacemakers.

If you have any questions please feel free to ask any of our staff or visit the information/help point found in our main reception, module 16 – marked on the map.

Module numbering: F = First floor; G = Ground floor; 1 – 16 = Module numbers (so G5 = Module 5, Ground floor – followed by specific location, e.g. L21 or CS1. Exact location is marked on the map in the middle of the booklet)

@NPL#nplopenhouse

@npldigital

Please see the centrefold map to help find your way around

Microwave Anechoic Chamber Module 1 Ground floor (G1-L16)

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Open Laboratory Themes

Some of today’s open laboratories and talks are linked by common themes. Look out for these symbols throughout this guide to see which are included in each theme.

Kids’ Trail Pick up a Kids’ Trail worksheet at the help desk in G16 or reception point

in G1. Try to answer science questions by visiting all the labs with the Kids’ Trail symbol, answer 5 questions correctly to win a prize!

SI Base Units The SI base units are the seven fundamental units of measurement (see pages 4 and 5 to find out more). Use the different coloured SI-bots to guide you to labs and talks related to each SI base unit.

Climate Change and Low Carbon Technology Climate change is one of the most challenging global issues we face

today. Look out for exhibits with this symbol to find out more about how NPL’s Centre for Carbon Measurement is supporting climate research and a low carbon future.

Quantum Measurements Quantum physics is the science of the atomic and subatomic world.

Visit these labs to see how NPL’s Quantum Metrology Institute is developing ways to make measurements on such small scales to develop new quantum technologies.

Metre (m)

Kilogram (kg)

Second (s)

Kelvin (K)

Ampere (A)

Mole (mol)

Candela (cd)

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Open Laboratories Guide

The following descriptions of the laboratories you can see today are organised in Module order. See the map at the centre of this booklet to see where each Module is.

Module 1

Josephson EffectModule 1 Ground floor (G1-L18)Named after Brian Josephson FRS, who was awarded the Nobel Prize for Physics for his theoretical prediction, the Josephson Effect has revolutionised electrical measurement science. The effect is produced in carefully fabricated electrical junctions consisting of a very thin insulating layer between two superconducting materials, and relates to the relationship between two fundamental physical constants. This relationship allows us to define an accurate and consistent quantum voltage standard. Come and find out how electrical measurements all over the world are now related to this fundamental physics, and see a live demonstration of the Josephson Effect in action.

SMART Antenna RangeModule 1 Ground floor (G1-L11)This microwave anechoic chamber provides a low-reflection environment for the accurate characterisation of antennas up to 110 GHz. Precise antenna calibration is essential for applications such as mobile phone network coverage, radar and communications.

Microwave Anechoic ChamberModule 1 Ground floor (G1-L16)An anechoic chamber is a room with almost no echo, and our microwave anechoic chamber has been specially designed to minimise microwave echoes, rather than sound. Come and see our (very impressive looking) microwave anechoic chamber, and learn about how we use it to study and calibrate microwave antennas used in a range of technologies, including remote sensing, radar and mobile phones.

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The Safety of Electromagnetic FieldsModule 1 First floor (F1-L3)People are exposed to electromagnetic fields from many sources, from mobile phones to hospital magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners. Our work allows the accurate measurement of the levels of electromagnetism absorbed by the human body from such devices, and is used to help develop international standards. Come and meet a robot we use for measuring electromagnetic radiation from mobile phones, and see a system for simulating the exposure experienced during an MRI scan.

Biometric RecognitionModule 1 First floor (F1-A6)Biometric technologies measure a variety of anatomical, physiological and behavioural characteristics like fingerprints, faces, and even the iris’s in your eyes. Biometrics are used to distinguish between different people, to check their identities (you may have a biometric passport that you’ve used at an ePassport gate). Come and see how we develop and improve methods to tests biometric systems, for both government and industry.

Module 2

Making Single-electron DevicesModule 2 Ground floor (G2-L4)Electronic devices work by controlling a flow of electrons. In devices like computers and smartphones hundreds to billions of electrons may be involved, but the ultimate goal in the development of electronic devices is to control individual electrons. NPL has been developing single-electron devices for almost two decades. We conduct our research in extreme environments, at temperatures only one hundredth of a degree above absolute zero, in a magnetic field three hundred thousand times bigger than Earth’s, and with devices one thousand times smaller than the thickness of human hair. Come and see how we make these tiny devices, how we cool them using our “fridge”, and how we can trap and detect single electrons.

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Smart Grids Module 2 Ground floor (F2-L1)There is an increased focus on renewable energy sources to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Because renewable sources are intermittent the electricity grid needs to become quicker to respond to changes in supply and demand. A “Smart Grid” can do this by measuring how the grid is changing second by second. Our equipment measures how the grid’s high voltages and current get distorted by modern electronic devices. Come along and see what effect everyday appliances have on the grid - some of them may surprise you.

MagneticsModule 2 First floor (F2-L6)Visit a magnetism laboratory to experience the world’s strongest fridge magnet and learn how these materials will play a major role in the energy of tomorrow. A number of interactive and fun displays will demonstrate the wonder of magnetism that has fascinated people for over 1500 years since the Greeks discovered lodestones. You will see how today’s materials have concentrated this power, and how everyday items use their fascinating properties by feeling the force for yourself.

Module 3

Examining the Nano-properties of MaterialsModule 3 Ground floor (G3-L1)Nanotechnology – have you ever wondered what it is, why it’s so interesting and what we can do with it? NPL carries out nanoscale research into the thermal and electrical properties of materials that are used in everything from cars to solar panels, to out of the Solar System satellites! We’ll show you some of the tools we use to study physics at such a tiny scale.

Neutron MeasurementsModule 3 Ground floor (G3-LS1 & LS2)At NPL we have been studying the exposure of aircraft crew to cosmic rays for over fifteen years. Visit our stand to see a display of equipment and results illustrating this, and some of the other work we do with neutrons. Chat to an expert – and see live cosmic ray readings!

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Coordinate Measuring MachinesModule 3 Ground floor (G3-L5)Coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) are used for measuring the dimensions of complex components in a wide variety of industries, from aerospace to medical implants. Come and see both contact and non-contact CMMs.

Measuring Temperature with Sound and LightModule 3 First floor (F3-L1)The temperature of an object is an indication of the average speed with which the atoms and molecules within that object are jiggling. But it is difficult to make the connection between the speed of molecular motion and the temperature in degrees Celsius. In this laboratory we make that connection. This is a rare chance to see the NPL-Cranfield Acoustic Thermometer, the most accurate thermometer in human history, which uses precise measurements of the speed of sound in a gas to infer the speed of molecular motion. We also have thermometers which infer the temperature by measuring the visible and infrared light that objects emit.

National FreeForm CentreModule 3 First floor (F3-L8)We use 3D scanning techniques to measure, inspect, and even reverse engineer objects. Come and see live demonstrations of 3D scanning for the fast measurement of FreeForm surfaces such as car doors, turbine blades, whale bones, human jaws/teeth, and all sorts of plastic and metal pressings.

Through the Looking Glass: Applying Optics in the Real WorldModule 3 First floor (F3-L11)Optical technologies use light (‘visible’ radiation that the human eye can detect), and at NPL we study the optical performance of a wide variety of instruments and materials. Come and see a range of optical devices including a liquid lens, holograms and microlenses. Observe Brownian motion (explained by Albert Einstein) with a microscope, and discover the applications of microlenses, including 3D photography. See how light can be guided through a transparent medium and discover the principles of total internal reflection and refractive index.

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Adaptive Optics and HolographyModule 3 First floor (F3-L11)We use active optical elements to manipulate light, and use measurements to create adaptive loops. Come and see how a liquid lens was used to make a laser beam measuring device, and how we use micromechanical mirror arrays to measure the response of solar cells. See our augmented-reality head-up display eyewear, which uses holograms to manipulate light.

Module 4

Investigating GrapheneModule 4 Ground floor (G4-L11)Graphene is a newly discovered material (in 2010 two scientists at the University of Manchester received the Nobel Prize in Physics for its discovery). It consists of a single layer of carbon atoms in a honeycomb structure, and has a range of remarkable properties, being very strong, elastic, and a superb conductor of electricity and heat. Graphene has many potential uses, and at NPL we study its properties to understand how this unique material will behave under industrial conditions, i.e. elevated temperature, humidity and various gas environments. Come and learn more about this important material and see how we research its properties.

Femtosecond CombsModule 4 Ground floor (G4-L15)NPL’s femtosecond optical frequency combs are used to measure the frequencies of our optical atomic clocks in comparison to our caesium fountain clock, used to set the UK time scale, and to compare optical clocks operating at different frequencies. We are also investigating other applications of femtosecond combs such as in low noise microwave synthesis, transmission of ultra-stable frequency references over optical fibre networks, and spectroscopy.

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Optical Atomic ClocksModule 4 Ground floor (G4-L16)We are developing next-generation atomic clocks, capable of measuring 1 second to 17 decimal places – better than the accuracy of the caesium clocks we currently use to define the SI second. All clocks rely on an oscillator that ‘ticks’ at a constant rate, such as a quartz crystal; optical clocks use laser light as this oscillator. The frequency of the laser light is tuned to the resonance of a single atom, which is trapped in a vacuum system and cooled to within a thousandth of a degree above absolute zero (-273.15 °C). Come and meet the scientists who will show you the experiment and tell you more about the applications of precise time and frequency measurements.

Defining the Second with NPL’s Caesium Fountain ClockModule 4 Ground floor (G4-L20)An atomic fountain uses lasers to cool balls of atoms close to absolute zero, and then to throw them upwards. As the atoms fall (like in a fountain), their internal oscillations are counted precisely to define the unit of time, the second. In 2011, the NPL Caesium Fountain Clock was declared the most accurate long-term timekeeper in the world, and, along with a handful of others, is used to accurately define the globally-standardised timescale. Come and learn about our Caesium Fountain Clock, and hear how it contributes to the worldwide International Atomic Time and UTC scales, vital for global communications, satellite navigation, financial transactions, and more.

Observing the Earth and Climate Change from SpaceModule 4 First floor (F4-L6)The Earth is almost certainly warming, driven at least in part by mankind. But what temperatures will it reach and what will that mean? NPL is looking to improve the accuracy in the data that are used to answer these questions. Come and see how we measure incoming and reflected solar radiation using satellites in space, and how we monitor the health of our planet. Learn more about our current work on measuring the colour of the oceans, of sand and salt in deserts, and the reflectance of leaves in forests.

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Setting the National Time ScaleModule 4 First floor (F4-L22)NPL runs a group of continuously-operating atomic clocks that measure time with incredible precision, and that form the national time scale, known as UTC (NPL). Come and learn about our atomic clocks and how we compare the UK time scale with other national time scales throughout the world using time transfer links. Hear about our MSF radio time signal, an accurate and reliable source of UK civil time, and our other time services.

Module 5

Time and FrequencyModule 5 Ground floor (G5-LS1 & LS2)NPL is the home of the UK time scale and our scientists are developing ways to measure time with ever increasing accuracy. Come and find out more about the science and technology behind our atomic clocks and why we need these incredibly accurate methods of timekeeping, then test your skills on our interactive model of an ion trap.

Building 55

Treating Cancer with Clinical Linear Accelerators Building 55LINACs are particle accelerators, similar in principle to the particle accelerators used at CERN, and are used in radiotherapy to treat cancer. LINACs destroy cancerous cells by bombarding them with precise, high-energy X-rays, sparing the surrounding healthy tissue. At NPL we use our LINAC to calibrate the accuracy of hospital radiotherapy facilities, and conduct research to further improve LINAC treatments. Come and visit the LINAC facility to learn more about how the accelerator works, and hear how our research is supporting the development of increasingly complex procedures to more accurately target tumours.

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Microwave Anechoic Chamber(G1- L16)

SMART Antenna Range(G1- L11)

Josephson E�ect(G1- L18)

Making single electron devices

(G2- L4)

Engineering Services Workshop

(G12)

Neutron Meaurements(G3-LS1/2)

Co-ordinate Measuring Machines

(G3-L5)

Examining the nano-properties

of materials(G3-L1)

Femtosecond Combs(G4-L15)

Investigating graphene(G4-L11)

Optical Atomic Clocks(G4-L16)

De�ning the second with...(G4-L20)

Time and Frequency(G5-LS1/2)

The Glazebrook Association(G15-CS4 & CS5)

Liquid Nitrogen Show (Teaching Lab G14-CS1)

NPL Video and Photo Archive(G15-CS4)

Work, Study and Train at NPL(G14-CS6)

Treating Cancer with Clinical Linear Accelerator(G6)

Nuclear Medicine(G6-L3)

Force Generation Machines(G7-L9)

Force Generation Machines(G7-L23/24 through G7-L20)

National Standard Kilogram (G7-L18)

Surface and Nanoanalysis(G8-L3)

Monitoring the Health of Large Structures(G9-L5)

Composite Materials(G9-L15 & L5)

Explore the Miniature World with 3D Microscopy(G9-L10)

Electron and Ion Beam Microscopes(G9-L1)

Acoustic Hemi-anechoic Chamber(G10-L9)

Acoustic Reverberation Chamber(G10-L14)

Medical and Industrial Ultrasound(G10-L1)

First Aid and Help Point

First Aid

Ground floor

Centre for Carbon Measurement Climate Change and Low Carbon technology exhibits

Unsuitable for pacemakers

Information/help

Stairs

Lifts

No entry to visitors

First Aid Point

Toilets

Restaurant

Child-friendly exhibits

Biometric Recognition(F1-A6)

Safety of Electromagnetic Fields

(F1-L3)

Adaptive Optics and Holography

(F3-L11)

Magnetics(F2-L6)

Applying optics in the real world

(F3-L11)

National FreeForm Centre

(F3-L8)

Measuring temperature

with light and sound

(F3-L1)

Setting the National Time Scale

(F4-L22)

History of Computing and Mathematics at NPL(F12-CS6)

Laser Flash Apparatus(F7-L2)

Gas reference standards(F8-A7)

Fuel Cell Technology(F8-L5)

Smart textiles for wearable technology(F8-L23 & L21)

Using light to measure gasses(F8-L20)

Air pollution caused by nanoparticles(F8-L16)

Nanomaterials(F9-L14)

3D printing in action(F8-L21 & L23)

Underwater Acoustics(F10-L12)

Observing the Earth and

Climate Change from Space

(F4-L6)

Refreshments point(Drinks and snacks available to

purchase from 2pm - 7:30pm)

Lecture theatre

Smart Grids (F2-L1)

Refreshments point(Drinks and snacks available to

purchase from 2pm - 7:30pm)

Quantum Metrology InstituteQuantum science and techology exhibits

Metre (m)

Kilogram (kg)

Second (s)

Kelvin (k)

Ampere (A)

Mole (mol)

Candela (cd)

Labs related to each SI base unit:

First floor

Module 6

Nuclear MedicineModule 6 Ground floor (G6-L3)Close to 1 million people in the UK undergo a nuclear medicine procedure each year. This involves the injection of a radioactive isotope, often attached to a specific drug, in order to diagnose or treat diseases like cancer. To ensure diagnosis is accurate, and therapies are successful, NPL works closely with the UK nuclear medicine community to provide calibration standards, good practice guides and ground-breaking research, leading to improved quality of life for patients. Come and learn about radioactivity and see the work NPL is undertaking to support nuclear medicine, with interactive demonstrations throughout the day!

Module 7

High Accuracy Force Generation MachinesModule 7 Ground floor (G7-L9, L23 & L24)Measuring force is important in lots of industrial applications, from determining the thrust produced by aeroplane engines, to calculating the weight of very large structures. NPL is home to a set of seven machines that generate a wide range of accurately-known forces in both tension and compression. Come and see these machines and find out how they are used to guarantee reliable force measurements in industry.

See the National Standard KilogramModule 7 Ground floor (G7-L18)The kilogram is the unit we use to measure mass, and is one of the seven base units of the International System of units (SI). It is the last remaining SI base unit to be defined by a physical object – the International Prototype Kilogram. NPL has the role of looking after the UK’s copy of the Kilogram, come and see and how it is stored and cleaned, and how it is used to underpin all weighing performed in the UK.

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Laser Flash ApparatusModule 7 First floor (F7-L2)We use the laser flash apparatus to measure how heat travels through materials, at temperatures from below freezing up to 2000 °C. Come and see how we determine the speed at which heat travels through slices of materials such as metals and alloys (in both solid and liquid phases), hard metals, ceramics, coated materials and metal matrix composites.

Module 8

Surface and NanoanalysisModule 8 Ground floor (G8-L3)We study atoms and molecules at the nano-scale level, and our world-leading research helps to design cutting-edge technology, including nanotech, medical devices, and the next generation of organic electronic displays. We are home to the National Centre of Excellence in mass spectrometry imaging, providing UK industries with access to a unique suite of instruments and the fundamental knowledge and innovation they need to realise the full potential of label-free imaging at the molecular scale. Come and see the nanoscale effects of dye on a human hair, find out something about the life history of one of your own bank notes, and see when gold is not really gold!

Gas Reference Standards: Making and MeasuringModule 8 First floor (F8-A7)The measurement of different gases is critical for quality of life. Everything from the cost of gas bills to the safety of the air we breathe relies upon the accurate measurement of gases. The concentration of air pollutants can be up to five times greater indoors, so measuring emissions from household products is a new important area of research.

Our team is among the best in the world at preparing and measuring gas mixtures. Come and see how we do this by preparing your own glitter reference standard in a balloon to take home. Then use your nose as a detector to identify how fragrances and flavours are influenced by traces of volatile organic compounds.

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Fuel Cell Technology for Greener CarsModule 8 First floor (F8-L5)Fuel cells are an emerging alternative energy source that use fuel efficiently by converting the energy stored in the fuel directly to electricity, rather than simply burning the fuel. Fuel cells in cars run on hydrogen gas, with water the only waste product, helping reduce CO2 emissions and improve air quality. NPL is developing measurement techniques and tests to help the UK industry to manufacture more durable and cost effective fuel cells. And we are supporting the rollout of a hydrogen refuelling network for cars by hosting a public refuelling station on the NPL site. Visit us to find out more about this environmentally-friendly technology, see our model fuel cell car, and learn about our hydrogen refuelling station.

Air Pollution Caused by Nanoparticles Module 8 First floor (F8-L16)Our laboratory measures air pollution caused by tiny particles of matter called nanoparticles. Although gases like carbon monoxide are one indicator of pollution, nanoparticles, such as the soot produced by car engines, are another type of pollution that can have a great impact on our health, and are more difficult to measure than most gases. Come and find out how we measure the concentration and the size of nanoparticles in the air. We’ll demonstrate some of our key techniques using everyday equipment like a kettle and a drum, and find out how pollution in the laboratory compares with the outside world.

Using Light to Measure GasesModule 8 First floor (F8-L20)We use light to measure pollution and greenhouse gases. Come and see us demonstrate some of the different technologies we use to measure emissions, including laser radar mapping of methane emissions from rubbish dumps, tiny lasers on balloons that can measure greenhouse gases up to 30 km altitude, and thermal imaging of greenhouse gas leaks – see the carbon dioxide in your breath!

Smart Textiles for Wearable TechnologyModule 8 First floor (F8-L21 & L23)Smart clothing has many potential and exciting applications. However, to make smart clothing practical new methods for integrating the electronic circuitry to the textiles are needed. We will demonstrate our conductive textile technology and show how metal coated textiles can conduct electricity. We will also show applications of printed conductive tracks, such as a glove demonstrator we’ve produced, which has conductive tracks on the fingers which we can use to monitor the change in resistance as you bend your fingers.

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3D Printing in ActionModule 8, First Floor (F8-L21 & L23)3D printers ‘print’ solid objects by adding material together to form 3D shapes. They’re used widely in industry as they allow you to produce highly complex and customised parts quickly, from jet engine parts, to medical implants to dinosaur bones. At NPL we’re working on ways to accurately measure and validate 3D printed parts, to help guarantee their quality and to make sure a greater variety of objects can be 3D printed. The machine you’ll see today is a “Hobby level” (£1500) printer, a type which we’ve used to develop mechanical parts, and even to create new materials with novel electromagnetic properties.

Module 9

Explore the World in Miniature with Electron and Ion Beam MicroscopesModule 9 Ground floor (G9-L1)To know how to make materials better – for example stronger or safer – we need to be able to see their structure at magnifications of up to 1 million times or more. Ordinary light microscopes can’t do this, so we use electron microscopes that allow us to see features 10,000 times smaller than the width of a human hair. Such small scales can be hard to comprehend, so come and see the structure of a human hair revealed by an electron microscope. Use 3D glasses to explore the surface detail of materials like fractured metal and Velcro in three dimensions. See an Ion beam microscope which can cut into the surface of materials to find out what’s underneath: see tiny features cut into a human hair, and even have an image taken with your name written on its surface!

Monitoring the Health of Large Structures Module 9 Ground floor (G9-L5)Structural health monitoring is the use of sensors to interrogate a structure (such as a bridge, pier or tunnel) to help determine its current condition. At NPL we are experienced in using Digital Image Correlation (DIC) to look at the changes caused by cracking in concrete structures, deflections of many different types of bridges and the changes over time of really large structures like Hastings Pier and Network Rail Tunnels. We will be demonstrating how this technique is making real changes in the way large scale UK infrastructure can be managed.

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Composite MaterialsModule 9 Ground floor (G9-L5 & L15)The excellent mechanical properties, low-weight, fatigue and corrosion resistance of fibre reinforced plastic (FRP) composites gives them considerable advantages over traditional materials for many applications, in a variety of sectors, including aerospace, construction, renewable energy, oil and gas, and transport. The use of FRP composites has the potential to reduce fossil fuel reliance and greenhouse gas emissions. At NPL we conduct research to increase confidence in the use of composite materials so that the advantages of this class of materials can be fully realised by industry. Come and find out more about this area of our work and see our mechanical test facility.

Explore the Miniature World with 3D MicroscopyModule 9 Ground floor (G9-L10)Three-dimensional optical microscopy is a new technique in which we can investigate objects on tiny scales, but in three dimensions. 3D microscopes provide fascinating insights into surfaces of materials, which can be used to modify them and make them more resistant to damage. Come and watch a 3D optical microscope in use, and see how it can be used to investigate the surfaces of a wide range of materials.

NanomaterialsModule 9 First floor (F9-L14)Nanomaterials are materials that include nano-scale components, such as carbon nanotubes or metal nanoparticles. Our laboratory develops techniques to better understand the surface chemistry of nanomaterials, as their chemistry determines how the materials will function. These nanomaterials are then used to develop next generation materials, which take advantage of the nanomaterial properties, such as increased strength, thermal and electrical conductivity, or radiation resistance.

Module 10

Medical and Industrial UltrasoundModule 10 Ground floor (G10-L1)We develop new ultrasound technology for imaging, therapy and industrial applications. Come and visit us and get sprayed by the acoustic fountain, see the sonic lightning ball, and hunt for diseased tissue with an ultrasound scanner.

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Acoustic Hemi-anechoic ChamberModule 10 Ground floor (G10-L9)An acoustic anechoic chamber is a laboratory that has been designed to be completely free of sound reflections, with acoustic wedges lining all surfaces. A hemi-anechoic chamber differs from a full anechoic chamber in that it has a solid floor instead of wedges. This allows us to perform sound power measurements on noise generating devices over a hemisphere instead of a full sphere. When you visit the anechoic chamber, try clicking your fingers and listening for the echo. If you get into the right position, can you hear a single reflection from the corridor outside, or the flat face of the door?

Acoustic Reverberation ChamberModule 10 Ground floor (G10-L14)If you imagine the exact opposite of an anechoic chamber, that’s the reverberation chamber. All the surfaces are designed to be highly reflective so that any sound in the room lingers for as long as possible (this will become immediately apparent when a young cherub dashes into the chamber and squeals with excitement). We use loudspeakers to fill the room with sound, and can then calibrate microphones in a ‘diffuse field’ environment, or determine the sound absorption of materials. For the Open House we will leave the loudspeakers turned off, so experiment by providing your own soundtrack. This chamber really rewards a good listener, but a spectrograph will also be projected onto a wall to allow you to visualise the sound in the room at any given time.

Underwater Acoustics Module 10 First floor (F10-L12)This is an opportunity to see NPL’s large acoustic test tank (5 metres deep), where we test and calibrate hydrophones and sonars used for underwater acoustics. You can also hear about man-made underwater noise and how it affects marine mammals and fish.

Module 12

Engineering Services WorkshopModule 12 Ground floor (G12)Much of the equipment used by our scientists is designed and made at NPL in the engineering workshops. Come and see examples of the work carried out, and how different items are designed and made.

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History of Computing and Mathematics at NPLModule 12 First floor (F12-CS6)NPL played a major part in the development of modern computing, including Alan Turing’s Pilot ACE, and the world’s first packet-switching network (the technology on which modern networks are based). A selection of photographs and artefacts will show you the leading role that NPL played in the 1960s in the marriage of computers and communications. Also, see how simulation techniques based on random events provide essential underpinning to aspects of NPL’s work.

Module 15

NPL Video & Photo ArchiveModule 15 Ground floor (G15-CS4)Come and see some of our historical footage of NPL from the last 70 years or find out about some of the open laboratories with our new introductory videos. The films will loop continuously throughout the event.

Essen Way

NPL Hydrogen Refuelling Station(Open 2.00 pm - 6.00 pm)NPL is supporting the rollout of a hydrogen refuelling network for cars by hosting a public refuelling station on the NPL site. Hydrogen-fuelled cars produce no harmful exhaust emissions - only water vapour. They are two to three times more fuel-efficient than petrol or diesel cars and their driving range is significantly higher than battery-powered vehicles. Visit the station to find out more about this environmentally-friendly technology.

For a detailed map of how to get to the Hydrogen Refuelling Station please see inside the back cover of this guide (page 33).

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Work, Study and Train at NPL

Find out more about working, studying and training with NPL

The Postgraduate Institute for Measurement ScienceModule 14, Ground floor (G14-CS6) – Postgraduate Institute Common RoomThe Postgraduate Institute unites all postgraduate researchers linked to NPL. Its mission is to increase the volume and impact of NPL science by developing in-demand, industry-ready measurement scientists. Come and meet some of the postgraduate researchers (PGRs) and the Postgraduate Institute team, to find out more about what we’ve done since establishing the Institute in October 2015. The PGRs will also be able to tell you about the research they are doing, and the Postgraduate Institute events that have taken place and are being planned for the future, and how this all links to the many universities around the UK that collaborate with NPL.

Interested in a Future Career in Science, Engineering or Business?Module 14, Ground floor (G14-CS6) – Postgraduate Institute Common RoomNPL and its resourcing team are passionate about inspiring the next generation. Please come and find out more about Labtastic, our holiday Science Camp that we run for 13 and 14 year olds; The NPL Academy, which is a work experience programme for 15 – 18 year olds; and our exciting Apprenticeship programmes that offer career opportunities for school leaves who are interested in Science, Engineering and Business. Our friendly team can answer any questions you might have, and you can meet some of our current apprentices to ask them what life is really like as an apprentice at NPL.

NPL TrainingModule 14, Ground floor (G14-CS6) – Postgraduate Institute Common RoomNPL training is used widely in industry to help businesses make the most of their measurement systems. Come and try some fun activities that demonstrate why measurement is so important, make a pendulum and see how quickly it diverges from Coordinated Universal Time, try your hand at darts to test your accuracy and precision (two different measurements), and measure yourself with our laser height measurement device.

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The Glazebrook AssociationModule 15, Ground floor (G15-CS4&5)The Glazebrook Association, named after Sir Richard Glazebrook the first Director of NPL, is a social group for former employees of NPL. In addition to enabling former colleagues to keep in touch with one another and with NPL, through meetings, activities and newsletters, the Association is keen to help the Laboratory remember and record its wonderful history of scientific achievements. Come and meet us for a chat, indulge in enjoyable recollection of the past, and spot yourself or your parents in photograph records of the Laboratory.

NLP Product Verification ProgrammeModule 14, Ground floor (G14-CS6) – Postgraduate Institute Common RoomSee how NPL help industry to implement measurement best practice, with real and tangible benefits. See case studies of the work carried out by our scientists in some of the UK’s leading advanced manufacturers. Find out how we take the excellence and expertise from our laboratories in Teddington to the factories of British Industry. Come and experience for yourself, simply and practically, the effects of measurement variation!

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Come and listen to one of our short talks in the lecture theatre, Module 16, first floorThe times and order of the talks can be found on page 32

Introduction to NPLHave you ever wondered what goes on in this big white building? Dr Martyn Sené, our Deputy Director, will give you a brief overview.Talks starting at 2.30 pm and 5 pm.

How Fresh is your Air?Do you know how important the quality of the air you breathe is? Jane Burston from the Environment Division will tell you about air pollution, and how NPL helps ensure we can measure it accurately. Talks starting at 3.00 pm and 7 pm.

How Does Anyone Really Know What the Temperature Is?Find out how we connect the number we read on a thermometer – in degrees Celsius – with the basic idea of what temperature is: a measure of the energy of molecular motion. Talks starting at 3.30 pm and 5.30 pm.

How Long is a Piece of String?Find out about the importance of measuring accurately. Michael Lingard from our Training team will explain the difficulties involved, and the role of NPL in making it possible.Talks starting at 4.00 pm and 6.00 pm.

The Liquid Nitrogen Show Many scientists at NPL use cryogens in their experiments. Our Outreach team loves to use liquid nitrogen to demonstrate physical science. Talks starting at 4.30 pm and 6.30 pm.

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History of NPL

For over a hundred years NPL’s scientists have made world-changing discoveries and inventions, such as the development of radar, Alan Turing’s creation of the UK’s first programmable computer, and packet switching, a data communication method that shaped the development of the internet.

Our scientists continue this proud tradition of innovation today, creating cutting-edge science and technology in fields as diverse as quantum computing, biosciences, materials science and climate observation.

The National Physical Laboratory was formally opened on 19 March 1902

by the Prince of Wales

NPL began testing taximeters in 1907

(taximeters being tested in the 1940s pictured)

1950 – A pilot model of the Automatic Computing Engine (Pilot ACE) designed and built at NPL

1910 – Building of the first ship tank

was completed

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See some of our historical footage in Module 15, ground floor.Find out more about the early days of NPL by visiting

www.npl.co.uk/about/history

1955 – First caesium atomic clock

Late 1920s – Thermometer testing

Mobile acoustical laboratory launched in 1947

In 1966 Donald Davies developed

packet switching, a data

communication technique upon

which the internet is founded

Alan Turing joined NPL after

the Second World War, and from

1945 helped design the Automatic

Computing Engine (Pilot ACE) 1910 – Building of the first ship tank

was completed

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Safety signsAround NPL visitors will encounter a great many safety signs; for your own safety it is important that you understand their meaning and significance.

ProhibitiveRed on a white background

Example depicted:

‘No unauthorised persons’

MandatoryWhite on a blue background

Example depicted:

‘Eye protection must be worn’

Safe condition White on a green background

Example depicted:

‘First Aid point’

Hazard warning Black on a yellow background

Example depicted:

‘Laser hazard’

InformationBlack on a white background

Example depicted:

‘Litter bin provided’

Water Rocket Challenge 2016Watch the Teddington sky filled with water rockets

Events you might be interested in:

Wednesday 15 June 2016

www.npl.co.uk/waterrockets

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FireIf you discover a fire, sound the alarm by breaking the nearest call point. There is a voice evacuation message. Leave the building immediately and report to the assembly point indicated on the map.

Do not attempt to fight any fire unless you have been trained to do so.

EvacuationShould the need arise to evacuate a building or module during your visit, a continuous voice message will be heard.

The following actions must then be taken:

• Report immediately to the assembly area for that building or module

• Don’t linger to collect personal belongings

• Don’t use lifts

• Please clear the area for the emergency services

• Obey any instructions given by NPL staff, fire officers or members of the incident response team

First aidFor any medical emergency, assistance can be summoned by dialling 3333 on any internal telephone. Medical welfare facilites are available to all visitors if required.

Smoking Smoking is not permitted in any building or the service roads between the modules. Smoking areas are located:

• Outside on the west side of Module 9

• East side of Module 3

• East side of Module 16

PacemakersPlease note some of our laboratories are not safe for pacemakers.

CCTV Please note that certain areas of the site are covered by CCTV cameras.

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Time Speaker Subject

2.30 pm Martyn Sené Introduction to NPL

3.00 pm Jane Burston How fresh is your air?

3.30 pm Michael de Podesta How does anyone really know what the temperature is?

4.00 pm Michael Lingard How long is a piece of string?

4.30 pm Andrew Hanson Liquid nitrogen show

5.00 pm Martyn Sené Introduction to NPL

5.30 pm Michael de Podesta How does anyone really know what the temperature is?

6.00 pm Michael Lingard How long is a piece of string?

6.30 pm Andrew Hanson Liquid nitrogen show

7.00 pm Jane Burston How fresh is your air?

Today’s talks

2.30 pm - 7 pmModule 16, first floor, Lecture theatre

Due to popular demand, additional showings of the Liquid nitrogen show will be running in G14-CS6

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Module 14, ground floor, Teaching Lab (G14-CS6)

Time Speaker Subject

3.30 pm Andrew Hanson Liquid nitrogen show

5.30 pm Andrew Hanson Liquid nitrogen show

NPL Hydrogen Refuelling StationEssen Way (open 2.00 pm - 6.00 pm)NPL is supporting the rollout of a hydrogen refuelling network for cars by hosting a public refuelling station on the NPL site. Hydrogen-fuelled cars produce no harmful exhaust emissions - only water vapour. They are two to three times more fuel-efficient than petrol or diesel cars and their driving range is significantly higher than battery-powered vehicles. Visit the station to find out more about this environmentally-friendly technology.

Car parks

Modules

Buildings

Route to Hydrogen Refuelling Station

Key

1

1

A

Sports Club Pavilion

10

16

15

14

13

12

11

1

2

3

4

5

9

8

E

A

B

C

D

FG

E

7

6

2

1

0514

19

384251

47

53

54

55

Hydrogen Refuelling

Station

Main gate

Queens Road gate

Cannon gate

The NPL site speed limit is 20 mph.There are many blind corners and concealed turnings so please reduce your speed and be vigilant. Vehicles must be parked in designated areas only.

Hampton Road

Hampton Road

Teddington Memorial Hospital

Broad Street

Peta

vel R

oad

Sta

nton

Ave

nue

Wes

t Acc

ess

East

Acc

ess

Bul

lard

Roa

d

Sta

nton

Ave

nue

Turing Road

Turing Road

Rayleigh Avenue

Bu

shy R

oad

Pavilion Road

Gla

zebr

ook

Roa

d

Coleshill Road

Col

eshi

ll R

oad

Co

lesh

ill P

assa

ge

Bushy Park

Bushy Park

NMO

Reception

BMT

Bushy House

Tennis courts

Bowls

Sports field

Bushy TailsNursery

ClapperstileCar Park (public)

Queens R

oad

Qu

een

s R

oad

LGC

New Kelvin Avenue

Stanley R

oad

Dora Jordan Road

Darwin RoadE

ssen

Way

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Open House | Visitor Guidewww.npl.co.uk ©NPL Management Limited, 2016. 11593/4PR/3k/0416