Pike Fears Quick Atom Conversion

Atomic piles for peacetime uses can be turned into weapons "in a matter of weeks," Sumner T. Pike, acting chairman of the Atomic Energy Committee, told the Nieman Fellows Saturday night.

Pike also stated that '40 men will be able to do an adequate inspection job of Russia's atomic installations" if international control is arranged. Atomic installations are large and easily spotted from the air, Pike said.

Discussing commercial peacetime uses of atomic energy, Pike pointed out the major problem is "killing radioactivity.' Present protection materials are so bulky and heavy, he added, that fissionable material can be used only in large ships or factories.

Among the AEC's now jobs is work on a submarine for the Navy. The submarine, Pike said, might be able to cruise 15,000 miles at 18 to 30 knots "without leaving a trail of oxygen," that might betray the ship.