PRESIDENTIAL ADDRESS. 29 
The strength of concrete (1901). 
Investigation in regard to the comparative strength 
and elasticity of Portland Cement Mortar and 
concrete when reinforced with steel rods and when 
not reinforced. 
An investigation has just been completed by Mr. A. 
Boyd, B.Sc. and B.E.. on the elastic deformations in fly wheel 
rims at different speeds of rotation. Experiments are still 
in progress on the elastic deformations and ultimate strength 
of various materials. Special rotating machines and 
apparatus for measuring the deflection during rotation 
have been designed and made in the laboratory for these 
researches. 
In addition to the foregoing a considerable number of 
experiments have been made on joints and connections, 
structural steel, girders, and structures. 
Irrigation.—The beneficial effects of the application of 
water to arid soil in order to increase its fertility and | 
render it more capable of producing food for the people, 
has been abundantly demonstrated in various parts of the 
world. Generally where the conditions are favourable, 
and where the necessary works have been well considered, 
the results show a satisfactory return, and form a profit- 
able field for the investment of capital and for the opera- 
tions of the merchant and financier. 
In Egypt the results of the periodic flooding by means 
of the Nile are extraordinary, and the narrow fringe of 
land along the banks of the river supports a population of 
nearly five persons per acre. The most important works 
are the barrages, or dams, below Cairo which regulate 
the flow of the Nile at the point where it divides into the 
Rosetta and Damietta branches and the delta of Lower 
Egypt begins, also the great regulating dam at Assouan 
which was opened last year. Much work has also been 
