Petroleum: Past, Present and Future

Abstract

THE petroleum supply situation is causing considerable comment in the United States at the present time and no doubt there is the usual crop of rumours concerning imminent scarcity of this product, so necessary in peace-time, so indispensable at this critical period of warfare. Dr. Per K. Frolich has given (Science, Nov. 26 and Dec. 3, 1943) a candid picture of the present position, supported by data from a number of reliable sources. Unhesitatingly he states that eventually a shortage in natural petroleum will occur; but he is equally emphatic that when that time comes it should be possible to obtain all necessary hydrocarbon products from alternative sources. Moreover, there is nothing to indicate that there will be any break in continuity of supply of gasoline and other petroleum derivatives. Nothing more nor less is envisaged than the gradual introduction of synthetic products into the industry as the supply of natural hydrocarbons declines.