1. An Oil Man Looks at Atomic Energy
- Author
-
A.H. Chapman and James Terry Duce
- Subjects
Fuel Technology ,Materials science ,Strategy and Management ,Atomic energy ,Industrial relations ,Energy Engineering and Power Technology ,Atomic physics - Abstract
Introduction In Oct., 1954, the authors prepared a study of future energy requirements of the world. These requirements were balanced against reserves of conventional fuels. To fill the gap left by future deficiencies of oil and coal, it was shown that atomic energy could play a vital role. We have now had the opportunity to examine the papers presented at the United Nations Conference on the Peaceful Uses of Atomic Energy. We now can present a better assessment of when and how atomic energy is likely to be used to help satisfy the world's seemingly insatiable thirst for power. In this paper we will point out some interesting highlights in nuclear development, some problems to be overcome in commercial utilization, and estimates of the future relationships between conventional and nuclear power. Military Leadership In the past, the first change in energy relationships has almost invariably appeared in military operations, and in that respect today is no different from the past. With the advent of atomic energy, the traditional pattern is repeating itself. Military impetus has sparked preliminary development and economic necessity for the development of new sources of energy. This is clearly visible to students of the energy producing industries. Scientists assure us that the world's crust will yield almost limitless reserves of atomic fuels and that they are well on the way to devising dependable means for commercial utilization of atomic energy. In discussing atomic energy, oil men must not view the future with the trepidation of the buggy whip manufacturer who saw the automobile as the ruination of his business. At a time when the demand for energy in the world is following such a sharply ascending curve - with ample room for all known forms - we should welcome the contribution of the atom to the over-all energy supply and thus to the prosperity of the world. We shall proceed, therefore, to discuss some recent developments in atomic technique and economics and also try to take a look into the future.
- Published
- 1956