American Mining Congress 9/24/58. Summary. Results of a recent underground test by the Atomic Energy Commission indicate possible applications of nuclear energy in mining and allied industries. The safety, feasibility and economy of nuclear detonations have been demonstrated and further considerations reveal a number of interesting situations which might lend themselves to the use of this new type of explosive. Possible applications include stripping, crushing, quarrying, and the exploitation of petroleum products, water resources, and low-grade ore deposits. The heat reservoir created by the explosion might be used to produce steam (and power) to promote the recovery of oil or tar. The mining industry can supply know-how and test sites for future tests.