As the global demand for hard rock commodities such as gold, copper, and rare earth minerals continues to rise, geological consulting has become an indispensable service. Geological consultants provide critical expertise to enhance efficiency, minimize environmental impact, and optimize resource extraction. By leveraging advanced technology and scientific knowledge, these services address both operational and environmental challenges in the mining industry.

What is Geological Consulting?

Geological consulting involves applying specialized knowledge of geology to solve complex challenges in resource exploration, environmental sustainability, and operational planning. For hard rock mining, consultants focus on:

• Conducting geological surveys to locate and evaluate mineral deposits.
• Creating detailed models of ore bodies to inform extraction strategies.
• Assessing environmental impacts and recommending mitigation measures.
• Developing waste management plans and reclamation strategies to restore mined areas.

Key benefits of geological consulting include improved efficiency, reduced operational risks, and enhanced compliance with environmental regulations.

Key Services in Geological Consulting for Hard Rock Commodities

Geological consulting services for hard rock commodities include:

• Advanced Geological Modeling: Utilizing sophisticated software to create precise 3D models of ore bodies, helping mining companies optimize their extraction plans and reduce waste.
• Resource Estimation: Offering accurate assessments of mineral reserves and resources to aid in strategic decision-making.
• Environmental Planning: Developing strategies to minimize ecological damage, such as managing tailings, mitigating groundwater contamination, and planning for land restoration.
• Risk Mitigation: Identifying geological hazards such as unstable rock formations or potential seismic activity and recommending preventive measures.

The Importance of Geological Surveys

Geological surveys are foundational to effective mining operations. These surveys provide detailed insights into the geological structure of potential mining sites, enabling companies to:

• Identify areas with high mineral concentrations.
• Avoid zones with significant environmental or operational risks.
• Develop strategic extraction plans that minimize resource wastage.

By investing in thorough geological surveys, mining companies can save time and resources while improving safety and sustainability.

Environmental and Social Responsibilities

In addition to operational benefits, geological consulting plays a vital role in addressing the environmental and social impacts of hard rock mining. Consultants help mining companies:

• Develop waste management strategies to reduce pollution and protect ecosystems.
• Implement water conservation measures to minimize the impact on local water resources.
• Plan for site rehabilitation and restoration to ensure mined areas can support future use.
• Engage with local communities to address concerns and build trust.

Innovations Driving Geological Consulting

The field of geological consulting is continuously evolving, with new technologies enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of mining operations. Key innovations include:

• AI and Machine Learning: These technologies help analyze vast datasets, improving predictions of mineral deposits and operational risks.
• Remote Sensing: High-resolution satellite imagery and drones are used to gather data on inaccessible or hazardous sites.
• 3D Visualization: Advanced modeling tools create interactive visualizations of ore bodies, helping stakeholders understand complex geological structures.
• Automation: Automated systems for data collection and analysis reduce human error and accelerate decision-making.

These advancements not only improve the operational efficiency of mining projects but also contribute to safer and more sustainable practices.

Risk Management in Geological Consulting

Risk management is a critical aspect of geological consulting. Consultants help identify and mitigate risks such as:

• Geotechnical Risks: These include unstable rock formations and the potential for landslides or collapses.
• Environmental Risks: Issues like groundwater contamination and habitat destruction are assessed and addressed.
• Operational Risks: Ensuring safe and efficient mining operations by addressing logistical and technical challenges.
• Regulatory Risks: Consultants ensure compliance with local and international mining regulations, helping companies avoid costly penalties.

By addressing these risks proactively, geological consultants protect both the environment and the financial interests of mining companies.

The Economic Impact of Geological Consulting

Geological consulting has a significant economic impact on mining operations. By optimizing resource extraction and reducing waste, consultants:

• Enhance profitability by improving recovery rates for valuable minerals.
• Reduce costs associated with operational downtime and environmental fines.
• Improve investor confidence by providing accurate resource estimates and risk assessments.

This economic value underscores the importance of integrating geological consulting into all phases of hard rock mining projects.

The Future of Geological Consulting

As the mining industry continues to evolve, geological consulting will play an increasingly important role. Trends shaping the future of the field include:

• Sustainability Initiatives: Consultants will focus more on reducing the carbon footprint of mining operations and promoting renewable energy solutions.
• Digital Transformation: Advanced data analytics and cloud-based tools will streamline geological assessments and enhance collaboration among stakeholders.
• Community Engagement: Building stronger relationships with local communities will become a priority for mining companies and their consultants.
• Data Integration: The integration of real-time data from sensors and IoT devices will enhance the accuracy of geological models and predictions.

The Role of Education and Training

The growing complexity of hard rock mining requires a well-trained workforce. Geological consulting firms are investing in education and training programs to:

• Equip mining professionals with the latest tools and technologies.
• Promote awareness of environmental sustainability practices.
• Enhance cross-disciplinary collaboration among geologists, engineers, and environmental scientists.

These efforts ensure that the mining industry can adapt to emerging challenges while maintaining high standards of safety and efficiency.

Conclusion

Geological consulting is a cornerstone of responsible and efficient hard rock mining. By partnering with experienced consultants, mining companies can navigate the complexities of resource extraction while minimizing environmental impact. Through advanced technologies and a commitment to sustainability, geological consulting ensures that hard rock commodities are extracted in a way that benefits both the industry and the communities it serves. With proactive measures and innovative solutions, geological consulting paves the way for a more sustainable future in mining

The post The Role of Geological Consulting in Managing Environmental and Operational Challenges in Hard Rock Mining appeared first on Test Pro-Marcellus.

Understanding Shale Gas and Its Extraction

Shale gas is a type of natural gas trapped in dense rock formations known as shale. To extract it, energy companies use hydraulic fracturing, a method involving the injection of high-pressure water, sand, and chemicals into the rock to release the gas. This groundbreaking technique has unlocked vast energy reserves previously considered inaccessible, contributing to the United States’ position as a global leader in natural gas production.

However, the process of fracking is not without its drawbacks. From water contamination to habitat disruption, the environmental impacts of this method have become a focal point of concern for communities and environmental experts alike.

Key Environmental Concerns

1. Water Contamination

One of the most significant issues associated with shale gas production is the risk of water contamination. The chemicals used in fracking fluids, some of which are toxic, can seep into groundwater if well casings are improperly constructed or if accidents occur. This poses a direct threat to drinking water supplies and aquatic ecosystems. Additionally, the disposal of wastewater from fracking operations presents another challenge, as improper handling can lead to spills and further contamination.

2. Air Pollution

Fracking activities release methane, a greenhouse gas over 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide in trapping heat in the atmosphere. Methane emissions from leaks during extraction, transportation, and processing contribute to climate change. Furthermore, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released during operations can degrade air quality, causing smog and respiratory health problems for nearby residents.

3. Land Degradation and Habitat Loss

The infrastructure required for shale gas extraction—such as drilling pads, pipelines, and roads—leads to land degradation and habitat fragmentation. Sensitive ecosystems are often disrupted, and wildlife populations face displacement or loss of resources. In areas of extensive fracking activity, the cumulative impact on biodiversity can be substantial.

4. Induced Seismic Activity

The injection of wastewater into deep underground wells, a common practice in shale gas production, has been linked to an increase in seismic activity. While these earthquakes are typically minor, they raise concerns about the long-term stability of geological formations and the potential risks to infrastructure.

Balancing Benefits and Costs

Despite these challenges, shale gas production offers undeniable benefits that cannot be overlooked:

• Energy Independence: Shale gas has reduced the United States’ dependence on foreign energy sources, strengthening national security and energy resilience.
• Economic Growth: The industry has created thousands of jobs, contributed to local economies, and provided a significant boost to GDP.
• Cleaner Energy Transition: As a cleaner-burning fossil fuel, natural gas emits fewer pollutants than coal, making it a valuable bridge fuel in the transition to renewable energy sources.

These advantages highlight the importance of shale gas but also underscore the need for responsible practices to minimize its environmental impact.

Toward Sustainable Practices

To address the environmental challenges of shale gas production, the industry is adopting more sustainable practices:

• Improved Well Designs: Advanced engineering techniques are being used to reduce the risk of leaks and contamination, ensuring safer extraction processes.
• Enhanced Wastewater Management: Recycling and treating wastewater for reuse in fracking operations can significantly reduce the strain on freshwater resources and minimize disposal risks.
• Methane Mitigation: Technologies to detect and repair methane leaks, along with reduced flaring and venting, are critical for lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
• Strict Regulations and Monitoring: Enforcing stringent environmental standards and conducting regular monitoring can ensure compliance and mitigate risks to communities and ecosystems.

These measures represent significant steps toward balancing the benefits of shale gas with the need to protect the environment.

The production of shale gas has undoubtedly reshaped the U.S. energy sector, bringing economic growth and energy independence. However, the environmental challenges associated with hydraulic fracturing cannot be ignored. Water contamination, air pollution, land degradation, and induced seismic activity are pressing issues that require proactive solutions.

By adopting sustainable practices, improving technology, and enforcing robust regulations, the industry can minimize its environmental footprint. As the world transitions to renewable energy, shale gas can serve as a bridge fuel—but only if its production aligns with principles of environmental stewardship. The future of energy must balance economic benefits with ecological responsibility, ensuring a sustainable path forward for generations to come.

The post Environmental Impacts of Shale Gas Production in the US: Challenges and Sustainable Solutions appeared first on Test Pro-Marcellus.

Understanding Shale Gas and Its Extraction Process

Shale gas is a type of natural gas trapped within layers of shale rock formations deep underground. To extract it, the industry primarily relies on hydraulic fracturing. This process involves injecting a mixture of water, sand, and chemicals at high pressure into the rock to create fractures, allowing the gas to escape and be collected. While this method has unlocked vast reserves of natural gas previously considered inaccessible, it has also raised numerous environmental and public health concerns.

Fracking requires substantial resources and infrastructure, and the byproducts of the process can have far-reaching effects on ecosystems and human populations. Understanding these impacts is essential to developing strategies for mitigating the risks associated with shale gas production.

Water Contamination Risks

One of the most prominent environmental concerns linked to fracking is the potential for water contamination. The chemicals used in fracking fluid, which can include toxic and carcinogenic substances, pose risks to nearby groundwater sources. If well casings are improperly constructed or accidents occur, these chemicals can seep into aquifers, contaminating drinking water supplies and endangering local ecosystems.

Communities relying on groundwater for agriculture, drinking water, or industrial use face significant threats if contamination occurs. Furthermore, the disposal of wastewater, a byproduct of the fracking process, adds another layer of complexity. Improper handling or accidental spills can introduce harmful substances into surface waters, affecting aquatic life and downstream communities.

Efforts to address these risks have focused on improving well construction, using less harmful chemicals, and enhancing wastewater management systems. However, the scale of shale gas production means that the risk of incidents cannot be entirely eliminated, prompting ongoing concerns among environmental advocates and affected populations.

Air Quality Impacts

Fracking operations contribute to air pollution, primarily through the release of methane and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Methane, a greenhouse gas that is significantly more potent than carbon dioxide in trapping heat, escapes during the extraction, processing, and transportation of natural gas. These emissions exacerbate climate change, undermining the argument that natural gas is a cleaner alternative to coal.

In addition to methane, fracking releases VOCs, which can combine with nitrogen oxides in the atmosphere to form ground-level ozone, or smog. This smog can degrade local air quality and pose health risks, particularly for individuals with respiratory conditions such as asthma. Communities near fracking sites often report increased rates of respiratory illnesses and other health concerns, drawing attention to the need for stricter emission controls.

Land Use and Habitat Destruction

The infrastructure required for shale gas production—including drilling pads, pipelines, access roads, and storage facilities—has a significant impact on land use. Large areas of land are cleared to accommodate these operations, often leading to habitat destruction and fragmentation. Sensitive ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and grasslands, are frequently affected, and wildlife populations face displacement or loss of critical resources.

Habitat destruction can also disrupt ecological balances, with long-term consequences for biodiversity. For example, migratory patterns of animals may be altered, and plant species native to the area may be threatened by changes in soil quality and water availability.

To address these concerns, there have been calls for more sustainable land management practices. Strategies such as minimizing the footprint of drilling sites, restoring habitats after operations, and carefully selecting locations to avoid sensitive areas can help mitigate the impact on ecosystems.

Seismic Activity

A less visible but equally concerning issue associated with shale gas production is induced seismic activity. The injection of fracking wastewater into deep underground disposal wells has been linked to an increase in earthquake activity. These quakes are typically small in magnitude and unlikely to cause structural damage. However, their occurrence raises safety concerns and has prompted further investigation into the long-term stability of geological formations in regions with extensive fracking operations.

States like Oklahoma and Texas, which have seen a surge in fracking activity, have also experienced a notable increase in seismic events, prompting regulatory agencies to impose restrictions on wastewater injection in certain areas. These measures aim to reduce the likelihood of induced earthquakes while balancing the need for continued energy production.

Balancing Progress with Sustainability

While the environmental impacts of shale gas production are significant, the industry is working to adopt more sustainable practices. Technological innovations, stricter regulations, and investments in cleaner energy alternatives are gradually reducing the footprint of shale gas extraction.

Speaking of balancing challenges and opportunities, it’s essential to take breaks and recharge your mind. For an exciting and enjoyable escape, why not explore Jackpot Jill Casino? The login page https://jackpot-jill.com/login offers a straightforward and secure way to access a world of entertainment. Simply register or sign in to enjoy a diverse selection of games, including thrilling slots, strategic table games, and live dealer experiences. The platform’s user-friendly design ensures you can start playing your favorite games in just a few clicks.

Looking Ahead

As the United States continues to lead in shale gas production, finding a sustainable balance between energy needs and environmental protection will remain a priority. Stricter enforcement of regulations, increased transparency, and collaboration with local communities can pave the way for a more responsible approach to resource extraction.

Similarly, taking time to enjoy life responsibly is just as vital. Platforms like Jackpot Jill Casino remind us that leisure and enjoyment can coexist with mindful living. So, as we strive for harmony between progress and preservation, let’s also remember to savor moments of excitement and joy in our personal lives.

The post Environmental Impacts of Shale Gas Production in the US appeared first on Test Pro-Marcellus.

Water Usage and Contamination Risks

Hydraulic fracturing, or “fracking,” requires vast amounts of water, raising concerns about water scarcity in some regions. Additionally, there are risks of groundwater contamination from fracking fluids and methane. While debating these issues, some policymakers unwind with Online Casino’s poker rooms, where environmental topics occasionally become table talk.

Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Shale gas production releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas, through leaks and venting. However, when burned, natural gas produces fewer CO2 emissions than coal. This complex balance mirrors the strategic decisions players make at Online Casino’s blackjack tables.

Land Use and Habitat Disruption

The expansion of shale gas operations has led to increased land use and potential habitat fragmentation. Conservation efforts are ongoing, much like the continuous improvements in Online Casino’s user interface to enhance the gaming experience. Remember to use promo code GOLD for special environmental awareness promotions.

Induced Seismicity: A Shaky Concern

Some studies link increased seismic activity to wastewater injection from fracking operations. This uncertainty in predicting outcomes is not unlike the suspense in Online Casino’s roulette games, where every spin carries potential risks and rewards.

Economic Benefits vs. Environmental Costs

Shale gas has boosted the US economy and energy independence, but at what environmental cost? This trade-off debate is as intense as high-stakes poker games at Casino Online, where players must weigh risks against potential gains.

Regulatory Landscape and Future Outlook

The regulatory framework for shale gas production continues to evolve, balancing industry needs with environmental protection. Stay informed about these changes, just as you’d stay updated on Online Casino’s latest offerings and promotions. Use promo code GOLD for access to exclusive regulatory impact assessments.

Technological Innovations in Extraction

Advancements in extraction technologies aim to reduce environmental impacts. This drive for innovation mirrors Online Casino’s continuous efforts to improve its gaming platforms and reduce its digital carbon footprint.

Community Impacts and Social License

Shale gas operations affect local communities, raising questions about social license to operate. These community dynamics are as complex as the social interactions in Online Casino’s live dealer games, where players from diverse backgrounds come together.

Global Implications of US Shale Gas Production

The US shale gas revolution has global environmental and geopolitical implications. Understand these far-reaching effects, much like how a single bet at Online Casino can influence your entire gaming strategy. Use promo code GOLD for international energy market insights.

Monitoring and Mitigation Strategies

Ongoing efforts to monitor and mitigate environmental impacts are crucial. These strategies require careful planning and execution, similar to developing a winning streak at Online Casino’s various game offerings.

The Role of Renewable Energy Transition

As concerns about shale gas impacts grow, the transition to renewable energy gains importance. This shift is as significant as the evolution of online gaming, with Online Casino at the forefront of adopting new technologies.

In conclusion, the environmental impacts of shale gas production in the US are complex and multifaceted. As the industry evolves, so do efforts to address these challenges. Stay informed about these developments, and if you’re interested in energy market trends, explore the specialized betting options at Online Casino. Remember to use promo code GOLD for exclusive access to environmental impact analysis tools and energy market insights.

The post The Shale Gas Revolution and Its Environmental Footprint appeared first on Test Pro-Marcellus.

Pros and cons of shale oil extraction for the environment

Scientists, environmental organizations, and environmental activists keep on saying that shale oil extraction should be considered a double-edged sword. Even though this method is beneficial for both big companies and individuals, many scientists are sure that shale oil extraction tremendously negatively impacts the environment. Moreover, millions of people around the world don’t want to pay high utility bills, especially those of them who have to take a loan at FCLOANS. Hence, let us analyze the most common benefits and drawbacks of this popular method of extracting natural resources.

Positives of Shale Oil Extraction

1. Economic incentive. Through taxes, royalties, and significant infrastructure development, this industry creates new jobs, greatly stimulates economic growth, and generates revenue for both local and national economies.
2. Significant energy supply. This method considerably increases the domestic energy supply, which greatly minimizes dependence on foreign sources.
3. Transition bridge. As renewable technologies develop, shale oil provides a transitional energy source, which helps reduce reliance on more carbon-intensive fossil fuels.
4. Lessened greenhouse gas emissions. As a byproduct of oil extraction, shale gas is righteously considered a cleaner-burning fuel compared to coal. It leads to lower greenhouse gas emissions when it is used for power generation.
5. Reduced import of oil. As shale oil production has recently considerably increased in the United States, it boosts national energy independence and mitigates any possible geopolitical risks related to foreign oil.
6. Technological advancements. Owing to innovations in drilling and hydraulic fracturing technologies, the overall efficiency of shale oil extractions was greatly improved.

Negatives of Shale Oil Extraction

1. Disruption of ecosystems. The extraction process can often disrupt ecosystems. It causes soil degradation and habitat fragmentation. Hence, it is a huge threat to biodiversity, especially in regions with rich ecological variety.
2. Air pollution. Shale oil extraction releases pollutants into the air. It especially concerns volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides. It completely worsens the air quality. Moreover, proximity to shale oil extraction sites causes stress, respiratory issues, and potential exposure to harmful chemicals, which causes numerous health problems in nearby communities.
3. Water contamination. Large volumes of water are used for hydraulic fracturing. It is often mixed with chemicals, which can contaminate groundwater and have a continuing impact on drinking water quality.
4. Induced seismicity. Scientists say that the injection of wastewater into disposal wells can significantly provoke seismic activity. It can potentially lead to earthquakes in areas, which are not historically exposed to such risks.
5. Resource amount. The process of shale oil extraction requires significant water and land resources. It leads to resource depletion and can seriously change agriculture and municipal water supplies.
6. Impact on climate change. Shale gas is considered cleaner than coal. However, such overall life-cycle emissions of shale oil as extraction, production, and combustion lead to irreversible climate change.
7. Long-standing environmental legacy. Plenty of abandoned wells and potential leakage of pollutants into the environment cause plenty of long-term problems. Therefore, it requires comprehensive remediation efforts to alleviate any possible environmental damage.
8. Regulatory problems. As shale oil extraction keeps on developing rapidly, it becomes incredibly difficult to monitor and implement new environmental laws to protect nature from any potential risks.

The largest shale oil producers in the US

• Chevron Corporation (San Ramon, California)
• Hess Corporation (New York City)
• Marathon Oil Corporation (Houston, Texas)
• ConocoPhillips (Houston, Texas)
• Occidental Petroleum Corporation (The Woodlands, Texas)
• EOG Resources, Inc. (Houston, Texas)
• Apache Corporation (Houston, Texas)

Final words

Now, you see that the environmental impact of shale oil and gas extraction demands careful consideration. Even though this method contributes significantly to energy production, its influence on nature is undeniable. Consequently, special regulatory laws, mitigation measures, and advancements in cleaner technologies must be prioritized to reduce the harmful effects of shale oil extraction.

The post How does shale oil and gas extraction impact the environment? appeared first on Test Pro-Marcellus.

The US experience shows that there are many accidents that cause damage to the environment and human health. Documented violations of legal requirements range from 1-2% of all facilities that have received drilling permits. A large number of such accidents occur due to improper handling of equipment and leaking equipment. Moreover, groundwater contamination with methane is recorded in the vicinity of gas wells, which in extreme cases leads to explosions of residential buildings, as well as potassium chloride contamination, which leads to salinization of drinking water. The degree of impact increases as shale gas deposits are developed at high density, with up to 6 wells per square kilometer.

Greenhouse gas emissions

The process of fugitive methane leakage from hydraulic fracturing can have a huge impact on the greenhouse gas balance. Existing estimates range from 18 to 23 g CO2 equivalent per megajoule from the exploration and production of unconventional natural gases. Methane emissions into aquifers have not yet been estimated. However, emissions at individual facilities can vary tenfold depending on well productivity.

Depending on some factors, greenhouse gas emissions from shale gas relative to its energy reserves are as low as those from natural gas transported over long distances or as high as those from coal, which goes through a full life cycle from extraction to combustion.

The EU regulatory framework

The task of mining law is to create a common regulatory framework for mining activities. The aim is to promote the prosperity of the manufacturing sector, secure energy supplies and ensure adequate protection of health, safety and the environment. At the EU level, there is no comprehensive regulatory framework for extractive industries.

However, there are 4 specially developed directives that regulate the extractive industry. In addition, there are many rules and directives that do not specialize in the regulation of extractive relations, but affect the extractive industry. Focusing on regulations related to the environment and human health, the 36 most relevant directives from the following areas of law were identified: water law, environmental protection, safe working conditions, radiation protection, waste law, chemical law and accident law.

The post Impact on the environment appeared first on Test Pro-Marcellus.

Shale gas production – how is shale gas extracted?

As with many other methods of mineral extraction, shale gas production technology consists of several crucial stages:

• Exploration;
• Drilling a network of wells;
• Installation of gas collection equipment;
• Creation of hydraulic fractures;
• Gathering and sorting of the products obtained from the wells.

Exploration.
At this stage, the company planning to produce gas evaluates profitability and other indicators related to production and environmental impact. If the environmental standards are in line with the legislation of the region, the process of drilling several test wells begins. Samples will be taken from them to determine the amount of gas contained in the shale. If everything is in order, the company proceeds to the next stage of work.

Drilling
The process of drilling wells in shale gas production is quite different from the standard “just drill a deep hole in the ground”. The thing is that, unlike the traditional method of gas extraction from gas deposits, this scheme does not work with shale gas. The main difference is the fact that shale gas is not in a conventional “gas bubble underground”. It is contained in the tiny pores of the shale formation located horizontally below the surface. Thus, having drilled a vertical well to a certain depth, it is diverted to a horizontal plane and drilled further as long as necessary. Thus, several (possibly dozens) of such wells are created at the production site.

After the direct drilling process, the wells are sealed. This is necessary to prevent the uncontrolled release of gas and other chemicals associated with production. In simple terms, the inserted pipes are insulated with various hermetic seals that do not allow gas to flow to the surface.

The post What is Slate? appeared first on Test Pro-Marcellus.

The pressure causes tiny cracks to form that allow the gas to escape. This entire fracture system connects the well to the productive parts of the reservoir away from the bottomhole. To prevent the fractures from clamping together after the pressure is reduced, coarse sand is added to the fluid injected into the well. The radius of fractures can reach several tens of meters.

The fracture process is highly dependent on the physical properties of the fluid and, in particular, its viscosity. In order for the fracture pressure to be lowest, it is necessary for it to be filterable. Increasing the viscosity as well as reducing the filterability of fluids used in fracturing is accomplished by introducing appropriate additives. Such thickeners for hydrocarbon fluids used in fracturing are salts of organic acids, wax molecular and colloidal compounds of oil (e.g., oil tar and other oil refining wastes).

Some oils, kerosene-acid and oil-acid emulsions used in fracturing carbonate reservoirs, and water-oil emulsions have significant viscosity and high sand-bearing capacity. These fluids are used as fracturing fluids and sand-bearing fluids when fracturing oil wells.

The use of hydrocarbon-based fracturing fluids and sanding fluids to fracture formations in water-injection wells can lead to deterioration of water permeability due to the formation of water-hydrocarbon mixtures. To avoid this phenomenon, formations in water injection wells are fractured with thickened water. Sulfide-alcoholic bordeaux (SAB) and other cellulose derivatives that are well soluble in water are used for thickening. As a rule, fluids used in hydraulic fracturing are carcinogenic. A special danger is the possibility of chemical reagents used in hydraulic fracturing getting into formations containing artesian water used for drinking.

The main environmental hazard in shale gas extraction is the use of large quantities of chemicals that are mixed with water and sand. Hydraulic fracturing (fracking) has to be repeated up to 10 times a year in one area. During fracking, the chemical mixture soaks into the rock, contaminating large areas as well as groundwater.

This is why shale gas extraction has been banned in New York State in the USA. In Europe, where environmental legislation is stricter than in the USA, this may be the main reason why shale gas extraction will not become more widespread.

The post Clean environment or shale gas appeared first on Test Pro-Marcellus.