Publications

Hydrofracking transfigured the concept of producing from unconventional reservoirs. The Fracking fluid used in fracturing has unlocked many tight reservoirs but in terms of an aquifer, it poses threats like consumption of large quantity of water and also, used water becomes polluted as well as recycling cost is uneconomic. This paper evaluates alternatives to water-based frac fluids and discusses their environmental & economic impact along with resource availability and commercial feasibility. Pure Propane Fracturing uses propane in combination with non-toxic man-made proppants (light glass & carbon fullerene microbeads) with desired properties. Pure Propane is fluorinated and carbonated without water or harmful additives, thereby eliminates the risk of catching fire. Pure Propane Fracturing eliminates the need for water completely and thus, a perfect option for fracturing in water scarcity regions. Fracture flow capacity of Pure Propane can be enhanced with the use of phase change chemical proppants in the slurry stage. CO2 Foam Fracturing predominantly comprises liquid carbon-dioxide which reduces the water requirement up to 80%. CO2 foam-based frac fluid uses relatively fewer chemical additives as compared to the water-based frac fluid which in-turn does minimal formation damage. Foam Fracturing fluids have high fluid recovery and clean-up efficiency. CO2 foam-based frac fluid is available in a wide range of viscosities and can also work in high pressure high temperature conditions at significantly low polymer loadings. Energized frac fluid comprises N2/CO2 (20-30%) which reduces water consumption and provides additional energy to aid in load recovery during the post-frac flow-back stage. N2 gas can propagate more easily into small pores and micro-fractures to get lower breakdown pressure and enhance fracture complexity & CO2 exists in dense phase at static bottom hole conditions, thus is less susceptible to dissipation and dissolves in crude oil which reduces its viscosity and improves cleanup and recovery.