Further research needed on naturally-occurring water in shale formations
Sunday, December 27, 2015
Fracking water has been a topic up for debate since unconventional drilling became a part of the shale industry. Fracking is the process of using high pressured fluid containing water, sand and chemicals into subsurface rock formations. The fluid fractures the rocks, improving natural gas flow into the wellbore.
Midwest Energy News reports that drilling companies and well operators may be able to better protect equipment by finding out more about naturally-occurring water in shale formations.
Researchers met at the Geological Society of America meeting in November to discuss recent shale studies, but further research will need to be conducted before a conclusion can be drawn about naturally-occurring water in formations, and what that will mean for drillers.
Via: Midwest Energy News > Scientists seek more data on existing water in shale formations
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Shale FAQ
What is fracking?
Fracking is a slang term for hydraulic fracturing. Fracturing is a process by which highly pressurized fluid is pumped thousands of feet into the ground to fracture rock formations. The goal is to release the natural gas that’s locked inside the rock.
Is it safe?
What most concerns people about fracturing is ground water contamination. The worry is that fractures underground, caused by the process, will extending upwards and into aquifers, releasing gas and chemicals into the ground water supply. There’s been no confirmed reports of such a thing happening. Though surface spills and drill site blowouts can lead to localized environmental concerns.
Will my water catch on fire?
Flammable water is caused by the release of methane gas into a drinking water supply. Methane gas occurs naturally and can be released by any kind of drilling, including water wells. In Pennsylvania officials fined Chesapeake Energy $1 million for contaminating ground water with methane. It was determined that the company had not properly cemented it’s boreholes and gas migrated up the well, between rock and into aquifers.