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