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MINIMUM YIELD OF NUCLEAR EXPLOSIVE REQUIRED FOR CANAL EXCAVATION

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:4250732

The results of a computer program for determining the minimum yield of spaced nuclear explosive charges required to excavate a canal 600 feet wide at 60 ieet below sea level are presented. These are applied to the Sassardi route across the Isthmus of Panama and indicate that a canal could be constructed with 619 units, the total yield of which is 33.75 MT. The cost of the nuclear explosive is estimated at less than one-half billion dollars. If the cost of placement equalled that of the exploion dollars if done by conventional methods is significant. (auth)

Research Organization:
Sandia Corp., Albuquerque, N. Mex.
DOE Contract Number:
AT(29-1)-789
NSA Number:
NSA-13-015478
OSTI ID:
4250732
Report Number(s):
SCTM-450-58(51)
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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