Silica sand, also known as quartz sand, is widely used in hydraulic fracturing (fracking) due to several key properties:
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High Compressive Strength: Silica sand can withstand great pressure, which is essential in the fracking process. When high-pressure fluid is injected into the rock formation to create fractures, the sand helps to prop open these fractures, allowing oil and gas to flow more freely.
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Abrasiveness: The abrasiveness of silica sand helps in the drilling process by providing a means to effectively cut through rock layers. This quality aids in the drilling operation, making it easier to reach the target formations.
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Chemical Stability: Silica sand is chemically stable and does not easily dissolve or react with the fluids used in hydraulic fracturing. This stability ensures that the sand retains its structural integrity during the fracking process.
While silica sand does not absorb excess moisture significantly and does not dissolve in oil, its combination of strength, stability, and abrasiveness makes it a critical component of the hydraulic fracturing procedure. Thus, the most relevant properties of silica sand for hydraulic fracturing are its ability to withstand great pressure and its chemical stability.