Currency note research and develoment project—guide
to records
Commonwealth Scientific, Industrial, and Research Organisation, Division of Chemicals and Polymers
Listed by Roderick Buchanan, Gavan McCarthy and Oscar Manhal
Producer of the guide: The Australian Science Archives Project of the University of Melbourne
Publisher of the
source
on-line edition: Australian Science and Technology Heritage Centre
of the University of Melbourne
2 Provenance—creators and former custodians
3 Inventory listing by series / Series list and summary descriptions
Title: Records of Currency Note Research and Development Project, CSIRO, Division of Chemicals and Polymers
Date range: 1934 - 1989
Reference: B5609
Creator: Fishermens Bend
Extent: 5.72 metres
Repository: National Archives of Australia, Victorian Office
Abstract: Following the appearance of forged $10 notes in 1967 and the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA)’s concern about the imminent release of colour photocopiers, cooperative research between CSIRO and Note Issue Department (NID) of the RBA began. The Cuurency Note Research and Development (CNRD) Project was developed, aiming to combat forgery of bank notes. The project largely centred on the CSIRO Division of Applied Organic Chemistry, later the Division of Chemicals and Polymers. The plastic $10 note was issued to the public in 1988.
Administrative information
This collection was not the product of a single filing or records management system. Rather, it represents material brought together from the records of a number of individual scientists who worked on the Plastic Banknote project, particularly David Solomon and Sefton Hamann.
As a first step, staff who had worked on the project were surveyed to obtain basic details of the surviving documentation. This survey data was entered into a database and used to determine which records were to be archived. These were then processed and their contents listed in detail. Most of this work was carried out on-site at CSIRO's Division of Chemicals and Polymers in Clayton.
Access: As Commonwealth Government archives, these records are unavailable for open public access for 30 years from the date of their production. As a result, the entire collection will not be on public access until 2019. Persons wishing to consult these records before then are therefore required to obtain written authority from the CSIRO Division of Chemicals and Polymers. For further information on access contact Australian Archives.
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The records have been allocated to 15 series. The codes used to uniquely identify each series range from 01 to 15.
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Through the processing of the records, 22 provenance entities were identified. The codes used to uniquely identify each provenance entity, i.e. records creator or custodian, range from PLP0001 to PLP0022.
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The inventory covers items, and may include records of continuing value, records sentenced for destruction and records that have been destroyed. The codes used to uniquely identify each inventory item range from PLBN00001 to PLBN01032. The total collection occupies 572 linear cm of shelf space (or its equivalent).
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The documentation of the records at inventory level started on 10 May 2004. The latest additions were made on 14 May 2004. The latest modifications were made on 14 May 2004. This collection profile was updated on 24 June 2004.
1.1 How to use this finding aid
This guide contains information collected through the archival processing of records of Currency Note Research and Developmet Project, CSIRO, Division of Chemicals and Polymers. The guide is organised into series which divides the records into related sets according to archival principles. This provides structure to the records and facilitates access, yet preserves information about how the records were organised when they were still in use. Within each series, an inventory of consecutively numbered files or records is presented.
The records of Currency Note Research and Developmet Project, CSIRO, Division of Chemicals and Polymers comprise 15 series. These series divide the records according to their type and/or function. The Series provides a summary of the contents of each Series, and provides an overview of the records contents and structure.
The inventory is a detailed list that documents each file or record. The Series Summary Descriptions can be used as an entry point from which to browse the inventory list. Alternatively an inventory listing for each series can be accessed directly from the front page.
If the collection is small, browsing through the appropriate series is often the easiest way to find a particular file. A Search tool is also available, which allows free text searching of the entire collection. These searches are made on a line by line basis, not by series and file number. Terms may be looked up in the Index.
The Provenance Listing provides information about the record creators, custodians or sources of Currency Note Research and Developmet Project, CSIRO, Division of Chemicals and Polymers. The documentation of provenance is an essential element in establishing the context in which records were created and used.
The About the Records section provides key information provides details about the extent of the records. It also provides details of the archival processing of the records; accessioning the records, identification or provenance and series, and creation of the inventory.
Accession, provenance, series and inventory are all archival terms used to provide intellectual control over a collection of records. Click for more details on these terms: Accession, Provenance, Series, Inventory.
This finding aid has been generated from data documenting the records of Currency Note Research and Developmet Project, CSIRO, Division of Chemicals and Polymers held in the Heritage Documentation Management System (HDMS). Please note that not all the data held in the HDMS is presented in this finding aid.
1.2 Archival terms
Accession
An accession involves the surveying and collecting of information about records as found and is the first step in the process that enables retention and storage decisions to be made. Accessioning focuses on the physical location of the records prior to their inclusion in an archive program. Indeed, it provides the gateway by which records can enter an archive program. A well constructed accessioning system that integrates the related archival and curatorial processes of provenance, series and inventory management enables a full audit trail to be created.
Accessioning generally divides records into groups according to physical location and provenance. The kinds of information collected in an accession are:
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provenance (custodian before transfer to archives);
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general description of the type, function and format of the records;
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physical arrangement of the records;
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date ranges;
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quantity and dimensions;
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location where found; and
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contact details of the custodian at the time of accessioning.
Each accession is given a unique accession number, and a box/shelf/unit number within that accession. This is used to document the order in which the records were found and is the vital management information that links the inventory processed records to their origins.
Series
A series is a set of records brought together intellectually (in a guide or database system) and this is often, but not necessarily, reflected in the physical arrangement of the records in the archival program. Series have two purposes. Firstly, they help preserve information about the structure and function of the records when they were last part of an active business or other entity and secondly, they help make it easier for archival users to find their way around the records.
Series are normally identifiable because they contain records which were used or kept together as part of a system. Records may be identified as part of a series because they may have been controlled through the same numerical, alphabetical, chronological or other sequence or were united in physical proximity by virtue of their function. They could also result from the same accumulation or filing process, which may mean they are of similar physical shape or information type. A series, therefore may be based on the format, content, function, or control system of the records.
The documentation of a series includes:
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the provenance of the records (custodian at the latest identified active date of the series);
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a title;
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a description of the format, content, and any control systems used;
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functions of the records;
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arrangement of the records;
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date ranges;
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quantity and dimensions; and
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related series.
Series are also numbered and divided into inventory units which assist with access and where possible reflect the way in which the records from that series were held together while active.
Provenance
Provenance refers to the creator, source or former custodians of the records and is vital in establishing the context in which the records were created and used. Provenance may be documented as the agency, office, place or person from which the records originated or were accumulated. This is the person or entity which created, received or accumulated and used the records in their day-to-day business or activities. It may also refer to the chain of ownership which reflects the office(s) or person(s) that created, received or accumulated and used the records over time. The allocation of an appropriate provenance entry at the various levels of archival records management is one of the key tasks of an archivist.
The records which are created by a specific office bearer in an organisation may be documented as having the same provenance, even though the individual holding this position changes over time. Identifying and documenting the provenance of records is an essential element in the successful management of records and the provenance information is itself necessary in establishing their authenticity and integrity. This may be of particular importance if the records are required to stand as evidence in a legal environment.
Using provenance information correctly means that the records of an agency or person cannot be confused or mistaken for the records of another. This also helps ensure that the records are retained and documented to reflect the way they functioned and/or were organised when part of the active business of the organisation or person.
Provenance data consists of information about the organisation, agency, workgroup or individual and is divided into elements such as:
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title of organisation / group / person;
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function(s) of organisation / group / person;
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structure of organisation / group;
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relationships to other organisations / groups / individuals;
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predecessors; and
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history or biographical note.
Inventory
The inventory provides the management tool at the heart of the archive program. It documents records and / or artefacts at a level appropriate to the structure, content and nature of the materials. It provides the information necessary to manage both the specific access to and the preservation of the records or artefacts.
The inventory documents and defines the units that can be removed from the archives for reference or any other purpose. These units could be files, a set of files, or part of a file; a volume or set of volumes, an object, photograph(s), electronic records or multimedia objects, or larger groups of material that could be described under a single title. The amount of descriptive detail will vary according to the nature and requirements of the materials. It also provides the mechanism by which the location or custody of the materials is managed.
Each entry in the inventory is given a unique identity number which is recorded in the database and marked on the records. In many cases barcodes are used. The inventory documentation includes:
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provenance (the last active creator or custodian of the inventory unit);
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title;
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detailed content description;
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formats of the contents;
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dates;
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quantity and dimensions;
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conservation notes;
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accession number (which indicates where the records came from);
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series and series sequence number; and
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access status.
2 Provenance—creators and former custodians
PLP0001 D. H Solomon
PLP0002 J. B. Ross
PLP0003 S. D. Hamann
PLP0004 B. C. Loft
PLP0005 D. G. Hawthorne
PLP0006 Drawing Office
PLP0007 G. C. Quint
PLP0008 I. C. Thomas
PLP0009 J. Evans
PLP0010 S. D. Hamann and D. H. Solomon
PLP0011 J. H. Hodgkin
PLP0012 M. Linton
PLP0013 R. A. Brett
PLP0014 T. H. Spurling
PLP0015 Fishermens Bend
PLP0016 R. Eibl
PLP0017 R. A. Lee
PLP0018 W. H. F. Sasse
PLP0019 A. W. Mau
PLP0020 J. Loder
PLP0021 Fishermens Bend and D. H. Solomon
PLP0022 Fishermens Bend and B. C. Loft
3 Inventory listing by series / Series list and summary descriptions
01 CSIRO-RBA Management Committees
Section 1 - CSIRO-RBA Executives Meetings - Files 1/1-1/3
Section 2 - CNRD Committee-Chief Executives Meetings - Files 1/4-1/5
Section 3 - CSIRO-RBA Project/Committee Meetings (1972-1974) - Files
1/6-1/11
Section 4 - CNRD Committee Meetings (1974-1979) - Files 1/12-1/38
Date Range: 1972
- 1980
Provenance: S. D. Hamann
02 CNRD Technical Committees and Conferences
Section 1 - Senior Technical Committee Meetings - File 2/1
Section 2 - Technical Committee Meetings - Files 2/2-2/3
Section 3 - Specialist Technical Committee Meetings - Files 2/4-2/6
Date Range: 1970
- 1980
Provenance: D. H Solomon
Section 1 - Reports to the Reserve Bank of Australia - Files 3/1-3/4
Section 2 - CSIRO Organisational and Briefing Reports - Files 3/5-3/8
Section 3 - CNRD Conference Reports - Files 3/9-3/15
Section 4 - CNRD Progress Reports and Reviews - Files 3/16-3/26
Section 5 - Divisional, Technical, Weekly, Note Testing and
Miscellaneous Reports - Files 3/27-3/40
Date Range: 1968
- 1988
Provenance: Fishermens Bend
Section 1 - CSIRO-CNRD Patents - Series of patent files containing
patent specifications and related material. File headings incorporate
patent application identification. Files arranged chronologically. -
Files 4/1-4/6
Section 2 - CSIRO-CNRD Patents Information - Series of patent files
containing patent information and related material. File headings
indicate subject area. Files arranged chronologically. - Files 4/7-4/11
Date Range: 1973
- 1986
Provenance: S. D. Hamann
05 CSIRO - RBA/Collaborators Correspondence
Section 1 - "E" Series" Files - Series of correspondence files,
containing correspondence between CSIRO, the RBA and collaborators. File
headings incorporate original file labels. Files arranged in original
file label order and list significant correspondents. - Files 5/1-5/13
Section 2 - RBA/Collaborator Correspondence - Series of correspondence
files. File headings indicate the major correspondent (where possible).
Files arranged chronologically and list additional significant
correspondents. - Files 5/14-5/20
Section 3 - RBA Miscellaneous - Series of correspondence files relating
to CSIRO cooperation with the RBA. File headings incorporate original
file number. Files arranged in file number order and list significant
correspondents. - Files 5/21-5/32
Date Range: 1968
- 1989
Provenance: Fishermens Bend
Section 1 - Subject Correspondence, D. H. Solomon Files - Series of
correspondence files drawn from the records of D.H. Solomon. File
headings indicate major subject area. Files arranged chronologically and
list significant correspondents. - Files 6/1-6/16
Section 2 - Subject Correspondence, S. D. Hamann Files - Series of
correspondence files drawn from the records of S.D. Hamann. File
headings indicate major subject area. Files arranged chronologically and
list significant correspondents. - Files 6/17-6/23
Section 3 - General Chronological Correspondence - Series of
miscellaneous correspondence files drawn mainly from the records of D.H.
Solomon. File headings incorporate date range and major subject area
(where possible). Files arranged chronologically and list significant
correspondents. - Files 6/24-6/34
Date Range: 1968
- 1988
Provenance: Fishermens Bend
"CNRD Project Technical Manual"; "CNRD Note Test Methods"; "CNRD Manual Of Note Test Methods"; "Manual Of CNRD Production Specifications And Test Methods". - Files 7/1-7/6.
Series of CNRD Technical Manual files. Files arranges chronologically.
Date Range: 1979
- 1983
Provenance: Fishermens Bend
08 Personal Files, Working Papers and Reference Material
Section 1 - J. B. Ross - Series of files drawn from the records of J.B.
Ross, classified by original subject headings (if possible). Subject
files contain reports, correspondence, notes, samples, photographs and
reprints. Files grouped according to predominant subject and arranged
chronologically. General Reference files, Reports and Correspondence:
Files 8/1 - 8/76. Note Test Reports and Data: Files 8/77-8/91.
Section 2 - S. D. Hamann - Series of files drawn from the records of
S.D. Hamann, classified by original subject headings (if possible).
Subject files contain reports, correspondence, notes, samples,
photographs and reprints. Files grouped according to predominant subject
and arranged chronologically. General Reference, Test Records and
Analysis, Reports and Correspondence: Files 8/92-8/131. Samples and
photographs files: Files 8/132-8/156.
Section 3 - M. Linton - Series of files drawn from the records of M.
Linton, classified by original subject headings (if possible). Subject
files contain reports, correspondence, notes, samples, photographs and
reprints dealing with moire design and reproduction. Files grouped
according to predominant subject and arranged by (approximate)
chronology.
General Reference files and Reports: Files 8/157-8/174. Test Records and
Analysis: Files 8/175-8/237. Samples: Files 8/238-8/251. OVERSIZE
MATERIAL - Series of oversize data and sample files drawn from the
records of M. Linton, in oversize boxes, rolls and folders. Listed
chronologically. Items 8/OS1-8/OS10.
Section 4 - R. A. Brett - Series of files drawn from the records of R.A.
Brett, classified by original subject headings (if possible). Subject
files contain equipment technical literature and related notes and
correspondence, along with engineering plans/diagrams and samples. Files
arranged chronologically. Files 8/252 - 8/272.
Section 5 - J. D. Swift - Series of files drawn from the records of J.
D. Swift, classified by original subject headings (if possible). Subject
files contain technical literature and reprints, along with samples.
Files arranged chronologically. Files 8/273 - 8/274.
Section 6 - J. Evans - Series of files drawn from the records of J.
Evans, classified by original subject headings (if possible). Subject
files contain technical reports and related notes and correspondence,
along with samples. Files arranged chronologically. Files 8/275-8/284.
Section 7 - R. Eibl - Series of files drawn from the records of R. Eibl,
classified by original subject headings (if possible). Subject files
contain technical reports and related notes and correspondence. Files
arranged chronologically. Files 8/285 - 8/286.
Section 8 - D. G. Hawthorne - Series of files drawn from the records of
D.G. Hawthorne, classified by original subject headings (if possible).
Subject files contain technical reports and related notes and
correspondence, along with samples. Files arranged by (approximate)
chronology. Files 8/287-8/290.
Section 9 - J. H. Hodgkin - Series of files drawn from the records of
J.H. Hodgkin, classified by original subject headings (if possible).
Subject files contain reports, notes and correspondence, along with
technical literature and samples. Files arranged by (approximate)
chronology. Files 8/291-8/300.
Section 10 - G. L. Quint - File drawn from the records of G.L. Quint,
classified by original subject heading. File 8/301.
Section 11 - R. A. Lee - Series of files drawn from the records of R.A.
Lee, classified by original subject headings (if possible). Subject
files contain reports, notes and correspondence on diffraction grating
theory and design. Files arranged chronologically. Files 8/302-8/304 and
records retained by R.A. Lee
Section 12 - T. H. Spurling - Series of files drawn from the records of
T.H. Spurling, classified by original subject headings (if possible).
Subject files contain reports and data on psycho-physical aspects of the
project, along with technical literature, administrative reports and
correspondence, and photos. Files arranged chronologically. Files
8/305-8/317.
Section 13 - B. C. Loft - Series of files drawn from the records of B.C.
Loft, classified by original subject headings (if possible). Subject
files contain administrative reports and correspondence, technical
literature and related notes, along with samples. Files arranged
chronologically. Files 8/318-8/322.
Section 14 - W. H. F. Sasse - Records retained by W. H. F. Sasse.
Section 15 - A. W. Mau - Records retained by A.W. Mau.
Section 16 - J. Loder - Records retained by J. Loder.
Series 8 contains personal files divided into sections according to creator. File headings indicate major subject area. File descriptions may also list significant aspects of their contents, such as reports, samples, plans, experimental records and/or data.
Date Range: 1968
- 1988
Provenance: M. Linton
09 Laboratory Notebooks and Work Diaries
Section 1 - Laboratory Notebooks - Series of notebooks and equipment
order book files. Files arranged by author (if known), and chronology. -
Files 9/1-9/33
Section 2 - Work Diaries - Series of work diary files drawn from the
records of J.B. Ross. Files arranged chronologically. - Files 9/34-9/37
Date Range: 1973
- 1984
Provenance: Fishermens Bend
10 Test and Experimental Records
Section 1 - Foils and Gratings - Series of test records and samples
files, containing foil and grating samples with some connecting
literature. File headings incorporate original label and file number
(where possible). Files arranged chronologically. - Files 10/1-10/45
Section 2 - Printing Trials - Files 10/46
Section 3 - Note Test Records, Data and Samples - Series of note test
files, containing tested banknotes, some connecting literature and raw
data. File headings incorporate original labels (where possible). Files
arranged chronologically. - Files 10/47-10/56. OVERSIZE MATERIALS -
Series of note test files, in original oversize folders. Contains tested
banknotes and data summaries. File headings incorporate original labels
(where possible). Files arranged chronologically. - Items 10/OS1-10/OS12
Date Range: 1975
- 1979
Provenance: Fishermens Bend
Section 1 - Presentations to Various Audiences - File 11/1. OVERSIZE
MATERIALS - Series of display materials and presentation files,
presented to various audiences, including the RBA. Contains cardboard
display items and original oversize folders. Arranged chronologically
(where possible). Cardboard Display Items: Made up by the Drawing Office
for a variety of display purposes. Sizes vary from approximately 8 cm by
30 cm to 80 cm by 150 cm. Date range 1975-1982, from CNRD Cabinet No. 7.
Items 11/OS1-11/OS90. Three Framed Displays: Sizes approximately 55 cm
by 65 cm. No dates, c. late-1970s. Items 11/OS91-11/OS94. Cardboard
Display Items: Made up by the Drawing Office for a variety of display
purposes. Sizes vary from approximately from 20 cm by 50 cm to 50 cm by
70 cm. Date range 1975-1982, from CNRD Project Archives folio. Items
11/OS95-11/OS127. Oversize Folders: Items 11/OS128-11/OS133.
Section 2 - Four Nation Group Papers - Series of files drawn from the
records of the Four Nation Group, containing reports, notes and
correspondence. Files arranged chronologically. - Files 11/2-11/5.
OVERSIZE MATERIALS - Series of display and presentation files, in
original oversize folders. Files arranged chronologically (where
possible). - Items 11/OS134-11/OS135.
Section 3 - Forward Planning Group Papers - Series of files drawn from
the Forward Planning Group records, containing related reports, notes
and correspondence. Files arranged chronologically. - Files 11/6-11/9
Date Range: 1974
- 1989
Provenance: Drawing Office
Section 1 - Microfilm Plans and Diagrams - Files 12/1-12/7
Section 2 - Original Plan and Diagrams - Files 12/8, Items 12/OS1-12/OS2
Date Range: 1972
- 1984
Provenance: Drawing Office
Section 1 - Photographs - Series of photograph files. File headings
indicate subject area. Files arranges chronologically. - Files 13/1-13/7
Section 2 - Slides - Item 13/OS1
Date Range: 1975
- 1980
Provenance: Fishermens Bend
Section 1 - Banknote Mock-Ups and Experimental Banknote Samples - Series
of banknote sample files containing printed and cut banknote mock-ups
and experimental banknotes utilizing assorted laminates. Various
coating, embossing, hot-stamping and OVD combinations. File headings
indicate contents. Files arranged chronologically (where possible). -
Files 14/1-14/22. Wear Tested Banknote Samples: 14/23 - 14/39.
Section 2 - Foils and Diffraction Grating Samples - Series of
diffraction grating and foil sample files containing grating masters and
reproductions. Various designs and carriers. Samples in isolation in
most cases. File headings indicate contents. Files arranged
chronologically (where possible). - Files 14/40-14/98. OVERSIZE
MATERIALS - Gerber Plot Gratings (and Moires), on plastic sheets:
Grating rulings plotted at Footscray Ammunition Factory, to be sent to
WRE and photo-reduced. Sizes vary from approximately 60 cm by 60 cm to
90 cm by 150 cm. Items 14/OS1 - 14/OS10. Foild and Gratings: Items
14/OS11 - 14/OS18.
Section 3 - Moire Samples - Series of moire sample files containing
various moire designs and carriers. Samples in isolation in most cases.
File headings indicate contents. Files arranged chronologically where
possible. - Files 14/99-14/139.
OVERSIZE MATERIALS - Moires: Items 14/OS19-14/OS33.
Section 4 - Laminate and Film Samples - Series of laminate and film
sample files containing printed/non-printed samples. Samples typically
without OVDs, cut/uncut, with various coating and embossing procedures.
File headings indicate contents. Files arranged chronologically (where
possible). - Files 14/140-14/173. OVERSIZE MATERIALS - Films and
Laminates: Items 14/OS34-14/OS50.
Section 5 - Miscellaneous and Mixed Samples - - Series of miscellaneous
laminate, banknote and OVD combination sample files. Includes
non-grating and non-moire OVD samples. File headings indicate contents.
Files arranged chronologically (where possible). - Files 14/174-14/183.
Non-Grating/Moire OVD samples: Files 14/184-14/188. OVERSIZE MATERIALS -
Miscellaneous Samples: 14/OS51.
Series 14 contains samples only files, without connecting literature.
Date Range: 1972
- 1984
Provenance: Fishermens Bend
Printing plates, diagrams, machinery and equipment, chemicals, turbula drums, templates and note test materials. - Files 15/1-15/3, Items 15/OS1-15/OS15.
Series of Laboratory artifact and miscellaneous equipment files. Arranged by (approximate) chronology.
Date Range: 1972
- 1981
Provenance: Fishermens
Bend
1967
May - $10 forgeries appeared. The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) was concerned about the imminent release of colour photocopiers.
1968
April - Cooperation between CSIRO and Note Issue Department (NID) of the RBA for a new type of banknote began, with a meeting between CSIRO and RBA executive officers in Melbourne.
Thredbo "Think-In" was attended by CSIRO scientists, RBA administrative and technical officers, and university scientists. The scientists present were mainly physicists, with two chemists, Dr Sefton D. Hamann, then Chief of the CSIRO Division of Applied Chemistry, and Dr David H. Solomon. The aim was "to produce a more secure form of note" to combat forgeries, particularly by photographic means. It was recommended that CSIRO undertake development of new cellulosic and synthetic papers in collaboration with the NID. Initially the Bank sponsored work at CSIRO directed toward the production of new types of papers from natural fibres, with early development concentrating on distinctive materials. In failing to obtain a sufficiently distinctive substrate, the emphasis shifted to producing paper-like substrates with plastic materials.
1969-1970
RBA grant of $11,000 was made to CSIRO Division of Forest Products for experimental production of distinctive papers.
1972
Optically variable devices (OVDs) in plastic note were proposed by Dr Solomon and Dr Hamann. Dr Hamann worked on OVDs exploiting optical physics, while Dr Solomon worked on chemically based OVDs. The use of diffraction gratings as a security device followed a suggestion by Dr. Bowen, the ex-Chief of CSIRO Radiophysics, that was taken up by Dr Hamann. Dr Hamann suggested using modified rulings that yielded a diffraction pattern markedly different to any commercially available gratings. The security afforded by gratings stemmed from their resistance to reproduction by photographic and print methods.
July - A two year development agreement was concluded. RBA provided a grant of $23,000. Rising confidence in the project led CSIRO to make a major commitment to it, over and above grants by the Bank, in the following years. The six stages in the research and development of the new banknote and the five stages of the parallel Machine Readable Feature (MRF) Project received RBA funding totalling approximately $1.5 million from 1972 to 1987, to CSIRO's Division of Applied (Organic) Chemistry.
1973
5 March - RBA reported that degradation tests of plastic samples compared favourably with those of paper banknotes. Progress report gave details of work on the production of montage diffraction gratings, the embossing of banknotes to give a paper feel, moire patterns, investigations of liquid crystals, and comparisons of plastic substrate in single sheets to laminate.
September - Joint CSIRO/RBA patent application, entitled "Improvements in or related to security tokens", was filed. New CSIRO-RBA agreement was made, with RBA agreeing to provide an additional $60,000 for a further two years. Support staff and equipment were obtained.
October - Polymer/Tissue/Polymer laminate was developed using various clear fillings.
1974
Project was now centred on the CSIRO Division of Applied Organic Chemistry. Drs Solomon and Hamann were joined by other CSIRO researchers investigating the possibility of an all-plastic note and possible security features. Several important aspects of the project had emerged: the use of laminated plastic substrate; embossing to give a paper-like feel; and the use of various OVDs, including diffraction gratings and moires. Other OVDs considered were thin metal films, liquid crystals and holograms. A number of different laminates were produced. With the technique of lamination used to combine materials, synthetic paper substrates were produced with reinforcing mesh/fabric between the layers. These centre laminates were code-named Strand 75. The all-plastic laminate eventually chosen for further work was code-named Strand 78 - the year it was hoped to have the new notes in circulation. Strand 78 was developed as a clear, biaxially-oriented polypropylene laminate, in which OVDs could be inserted without the necessity of punching holes. Laminates with tissue inserts were unacceptably limp and tended to stick together.
The feasibility of production on a pilot scale was investigated. $39,700 was granted by CSIRO Executive to enable development to be brought to a decision point.
April - Cooperation took place with ACI (Regis) and Union Carbide.
August - Reports gave details of progress on the pilot scale laminator, randomly spaced moire devices, the development of liquid crystals (later dropped), and anticipated mass production methods and equipment. The joint RBA-CSIRO CNRD Committee was re-constituted with the project moving into its developmental phase. Now designated the Currency Note Research and Development Project (CNRD), the research effort increased appreciably following a CSIRO-RBA agreement on project objectives. Dr David Solomon, Chief of the Division of Applied Organic Chemistry, now led CSIRO research on the project. The project's objectives were clarified to encompass four main elements: a polymer-based substrate, with laminated film and coatings; imaging with intaglio, tints and numbering; primary security (OVDs), for the man in the street; and, secondary security (MRF), for authentication in high speed sorting. A pilot plant was built at Fishermens Bend. A total of 57 man years were devoted to the project during the next six years.
September - Diffraction grating submasters were produced. Mark 1 banknote production was to be designed and tested.
1975
June - The first contract employees (non-CSIRO) commenced in early 1975, followed by Project Leader, G.P. Wischer. Several additional CSIRO research staff were appointed, making a total of 14 employed on the CNRD project in the 1975-76 period. With Jack B. Ross as Project Supervisor, CSIRO staff working on the project in this period included Dr Geoff Hawthorne, Bob Brett, Max Linton, Bryan Loft, Dr Jonathan Hodgkin, Jean Swift, Dr Tom Spurling, and Ian Marwick. Dr Robert Lee joined the CNRD project on the 3 March 1975, along with Dr. Mario Girolamo. Dr. Girolamo was appointed to work on the plastic technology. Dr Lee researched the use of OVDs in banknotes following the work of Dr Hamann, at the Division of Applied Organic Chemistry until July 1979, when he transferred to the Division of Chemical Physics at Clayton. Dr. Lee was directly employed by the CNRD project until 1977, prior to joining CSIRO.
July - Reports gave details of progress in a number of areas including: continuous diffraction grating replication and the cooperation of Weapons Research Lab/Establishment (S.A.) and Footscray Ammunition Factory; production of reinforced laminate with 14" laminator and extrusion coating of fabric; tests developed to assess note material and subjective properties of notes; and a hot-stamping technique for OVD insertion. It was further reported that: the RBA had been given responsibility for laminate production and testing, as well as printing and inks; Strand 75 was to be produced with a clear window as a security device; Strand 77 was to be produced with a thermochromic or photochromic security device and grating; Strand 78 was to include a moire; laboratory testing had begun; and a plan had been proposed to renovate Bayfords building for pilot production.
1976
January - A report recommended that the RBA take responsibility for further development and production aspects of Strand 78, as well as printing, cutting, quality control and physical and mechanical testing. Other topics reported on included: the ability of polyurethane lacquer to increase scuff resistance; the possibility of gratings production via electron beam lithography; investigations of holograms, birefringence, double refraction and polarising films; problems noted with RBA Chambon press printing and sheeting with Strand 75, clear polypropylene being better. It was also recommended that the RBA employ more staff to support G. P. Wisher and K. Clark.
June - It was agreed that sheet/web operation was only a stop-gap solution with web feed the final intention.
August - It was agreed that the RBA should consider the problems of scaling up, while CSIRO still continued to research alternatives.
September - Design freeze for Mark 1 note agreed upon. The development of Strand 75 mesh-reinforced laminates was to cease in favour of oriented polypropylene with high fold resistance and tear strength. A clear laminate blanked by gravure printing was to provide the background for text printing. There would be a clear area for an OVD, offset printing and letterpress numbering, and modulated line spacing for gratings, with the "butterfly" pattern selected for recognisability. The hot-stamp grating transfer process was to be developed, along with techniques for reproducing zone plate moire onto foil, including fine line printing, photography, electrography and dye transfer. Photochromic inks were to be researched, but liquid crystal OVDs were discarded due to common commercial availability. With the design freeze, many options currently being worked on were put on hold. The aim was to minimise unknown factors. Various types of OVDs, inside printing of the laminate and the incorporation of security devices within a fully encapsulated laminate, were put aside. The latter two options depended on web feed production and had the potential to greatly enhance note life. In a compromise, continuous web feed was downgraded to sheet feed for trial print run and subsequent production.
December - Pilot note production commenced. Several hundred notes were produced in the following months, with all "design freeze" elements. Ther were problems with OVD insertion and adhesion onto Strand 78 M, with gratings also lacking brilliance.
1977
July - Reports gave details of progress in areas including: the use of "Shorko" polypropylene films as replacement for ICI films; the intitiation of UV ink research; the acquisition of a Tampoprint machine and the investigation of fine-line metal plate printing; the incorporation of a spectroscopic label in transfer tape.
November - Reports gave information on: the durability of UV inks; the obtaining of good Tampoprint reflection moires; coating, embossing and "Turbula" testing; the evaluation of the JEOL electron beam machine as the most satisfactory of those tested; visits to ICI and British Cellophane regarding Propaphane films, coatings and inks.
November - The Assessment Panel met. CNRD notes had been subjected to preliminary tests designed to evaluate strength, resistance to wear, handling and counting properties. Initial reactions had been favourable. The beginning of the full testing process with the Panel supported this view. However, two significant shortcomings were noted - fold and recovery characteristics were viewed as inferior to paper notes. Strength of CNRD note was superior when new, less so when the perimeter was nicked. The toppan grating was favoured for its greater brilliance, while moires were not highly rated on the grounds of recognisability, nor were photochromic inks because of their short life. It was also noted that gratings and moires were vulnerable to crumpling. For this reason, gratings composed of small tesserae were developed, in preference to large unified images, a principle applied to moires as well.
1978
March - Extended range of note test methods approved by CNRD Committee. The Assessment Panel had noted that evaluation of preliminary test samples was made difficult by overtesting i.e. testing beyond a condition suitable for normal use. A comprehensive test program designed to closely simulate the critical environmental elements leading to deterioration of notes in normal use was thus developed.
June - Report on revised test methods and results commented on the feasibility of producing unique EBX tessellated gratings. It further reported that: the moire had been improved but its recognisability and durability was doubtful; and the durability of photochromics was limited.
24-27 July - Tangalooma Conference.
1979
Report describes the CNRD Committee's opinion that the production process was practical, that the CNRD notes offered an acceptable improvement in security over conventional notes, that the CNRD note handled satisfactorily, and that the endurance of the tessellated OVDs was satisfactory.
August - Forward Planning Committee under Professor Fink made its recommendations.
1980
April - RBA Governor expressed the possibility that the RBA might buy-out CSIRO's interest in CNRD.
May - It was decided to purchase EBX machine.
June - Drs Solomon and Girolamo, and Mr J.B. Ross were transferred to Bayfords for 12 months.
August - Gravure machine requirements and a 10,000 sheet trial program were discussed. Mr E. Peacock (CMPS) was appointed as Project Consultant.
22 September - Agreement of rights was signed by CSIRO and RBA. Essential elements of the agreement were that the technology was to be a joint property, with the RBA free to produce Australian currency notes. The technology was to be kept confidential, with overseas currency and non-currency uses to be negotiated only if agreed to by both parties. The profits from overseas marketing were to be shared equally. If the RBA had not used a substantial part of the technology within Australia by 1984, the rights would revert to CSIRO. CSIRO was to reimburse the RBA for its costs from the proceeds of marketing the technology. CSIRO began to push export potential of the technology, while the RBA was concerned with currency note security. Although it planned to exchange the CNRD technology in the Four Nations Group (US, UK, Canada), the RBA felt that other avenues of exploitation would jeopardise the security of the new notes.
Technology transfer from CSIRO to RBA begins. CSIRO involvement was limited to assisting in the solution of problems relating to transferring the technology from the pilot plant to a production plant.
1981
Papers outlining a theory for generalised curvilinear gratings by Dr R. A. Lee were cleared by the RBA. The value of Dr Lee's theory was that diffraction patterns could be determined with high speed, with a systematic design procedure that takes into account the effects of crinkling and light source variation. Originally written in the 1976-1979 period and submitted for clearance prior to Dr Lee's transfer to the Division of Chemical Physics in 1979, they were published in Optica Acta in 1983.
EBX system delivered to the RBA Note Printing Branch (NPB). The development of the oblique line-scanning EBX system by Mr Graham Quint and Mr Alan Wilson, was a major advance in the field of electron beam technology. The system allowed fine-scale, exotic diffraction structures and new possibilities in the area of integrated optics and micro-electronics.
1982
April - Dr J.H. Hodgkin was seconded for 12 months from the Division of Applied Organic Chemistry to the RBA-NPB Craigieburn.
November - J.B. Ross was seconded for 12 months to RBA-NPB Craigieburn. Alan Wilson was also on secondment to the RBA around this period, later resigning from CSIRO in 1985 to become an independent consultant to the Bank. The CNRD Project was now largely taken over by the RBA, with the number of CSIRO CNRD staff reduced to three, from a peak of 17 in 1977-78.
1984
It was agreed that CSIRO should not "foreclose", that the RBA had "used a substantial part of the CNRD technology in Australia". It was suggested that negotiations on a new agreement commence.
1987
December - A new CSIRO-RBA agreement was signed, with all rights to the CNRD technology, apart from CATPIX II, to be sold to the RBA. Security of the currency continues to restrain commercial use of most of the CNRD technology.
1988
27 January - Public issue of the plastic AB series $10 note began. After correcting some initial production problems, the improved AA series of commemorative notes was issued.
Processing of this collection and generation of this finding aid was made possible with the support of CSIRO Division of Chemicals and Polymers and The University of Melbourne.
