Silica sand has several properties that make it particularly useful in hydraulic fracturing (fracking). The relevant properties include:
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Can withstand great pressure: Silica sand has a high compressive strength, allowing it to maintain its structure when subjected to the high pressures encountered during the hydraulic fracturing process. This is critical to ensure the proppant remains effective in keeping fractures open, allowing for oil and gas to flow.
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It’s abrasive aids in drilling: The abrasive nature of silica sand allows it to cut through rock formations during the drilling process. This characteristic helps in the creation of fractures that facilitate the extraction of hydrocarbons.
The other options mentioned—dissolving easily in oil and absorbing excess moisture—are not characteristics of silica sand that would benefit hydraulic fracturing. Silica sand is generally inert and does not dissolve in oil, nor does it have significant moisture-absorbing characteristics relevant to fracking. Hence, the first two properties listed above are the most pertinent for its effectiveness in hydraulic fracturing.
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