Gunpowder was first produced at this site in the 1660s and as explosives developed so the complex expanded until it finally became a research facility for rocket propulsion in the late 20th century. As well as its documented effect on the conduct of war, gunpowder also benefited the peaceful development of the mining and civil engineering industries.

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The mixing together of sulphur, charcoal and saltpetre (potassium nitrate) to form an explosive compound was discovered in China around a thousand years ago. The manufacture of gunpowder was always a dangerous process and this is well evidenced by the precautions which are still evident throughout the site.

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