Full Title: Waterless Fracking: A Clean Substitute
Author(s): Nathan Janiczek
Publisher(s): University of Pittsburgh, Swanson School of Engineering
Publication Date: October 1, 2012
Full Text: Download Resource
Description (excerpt):
Hydraulic fracturing, more commonly known as fracking, has become a source of much controversy in recent years. Fracking is a process used to release natural gas and other substances from underground rock formations through the use of pressurized fluids. These fluids are pumped into wells to break up the source rocks and extract the valuable natural gasses within them [1]. However, the fluids used are often composed of toxic chemicals that pose a threat to both people and the environment. The resulting fluids that come back to the surface are often not dealt with properly. This has led to intense debate among gas drilling companies, citizens, and environmentalists. The main argument is whether or not the environmental detriment is worth the economic benefits fracking provides.