DISCUSSION 



Question: 



Does the Smithsonian sample "library" expect that all samples will be 

 returned in the condition received? 



Answer: 



No, Most analyses conducted on sediments are destructive. Some 

 samples would eventually be used up and could not be returned. 



Question: 



Is the Oceanographic Sorting Center interested in assembling a file 

 of bottom profiles or bottom photographs? 



Answer: 



Question: 



Have any oil companies or private engineering and research firms been 

 contacted to donate samples to the library or is there any intent to do so? 



Answer: 



Oil companies have not been contacted to date. We hope to do so but 

 have no idea as to the reception that we will receive. Formally, no con- 

 tact has been made with private engineering and research firms. Some in- 

 formal discussion has taken place about the availability of the samples for 

 study by private firms or individuals employed by these firms. As set up, 

 the sample "library" is for furtherance of knowledge. It is doubtful if 

 the samples could be loaned out if the information gained is to be kept 

 secret. If the intent is to publish the results, then there would be 

 nothing against these companies using the samples. We intend to set up 

 an Advisory Committee to formulate guidelines and the decision in such 

 cases would be up to this committee. 



Question: 



How many samples does the Sorting Center have at the present? 



Answer: 



A very limited number. In fact, a suite of beach samples from Florida 

 and a few manganese nodules from the Indian Ocean. The position for a person 

 to head the geology section is not available until July 1, 1965, and the 

 program will not start operating until then. 



