Yes, silica sand is definitively used in fracking.
Silica sand, often known as frac sand or industrial sand, is a crucial component in the process of hydraulic fracturing. The reference provided confirms that frac sand is essentially uniform quartz sand selected for a specific grain shape and size specifically used for hydraulic fracturing.
Role of Silica Sand (Frac Sand) in Hydraulic Fracturing
During the fracking process, a high-pressure mixture of water, chemicals, and proppant (in this case, silica sand) is injected into a wellbore to create and hold open fractures in underground rock formations. These fractures allow trapped oil and natural gas to flow more easily to the surface.
The silica sand acts as a proppant. Its primary function is to keep these newly created fractures open after the injection pressure is released. For the sand to perform this critical role effectively, it must possess specific characteristics:
- Grain Shape and Size: The reference highlights the need for a specific shape and size. This ensures uniform distribution within the fracture and efficient flow paths.
- Roundness: The grains must be very round. This characteristic helps them flow easily with the fracking fluid and minimizes crushing when subjected to immense pressure underground.
- Hardness: The sand grains must be extremely hard. This is vital because the proppant must withstand the closure stress of the surrounding rock trying to squeeze the fracture shut. Hard grains resist crushing under this pressure, maintaining the conductivity of the fracture.
By keeping the fractures propped open, the silica sand facilitates the sustained extraction of hydrocarbons from the reservoir rock.
