Silica sand has several properties that make it useful in hydraulic fracturing (fracking), especially its ability to withstand great pressure. Here's a breakdown of the properties relevant to fracking:
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High Compressive Strength: Silica sand can withstand the immense pressures encountered in underground rock formations during the fracking process. This allows it to hold open the fractures created, ensuring that oil or gas can flow more freely.
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Shape and Size: The uniform shape and size of silica sand grains help in maintaining the permeability of the fractures, allowing fluids to flow more easily through the created pathways.
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Chemical Inertness: Silica sand is chemically stable and doesn’t react with the fluids used in fracking, ensuring that it won’t interfere with the extraction process.
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Low Moisture Absorption: While not specifically an absorptive material, its low moisture absorption can help maintain consistent properties during the fracking process.
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Abrasiveness: Though not a primary requirement, the abrasiveness of silica sand can aid in the drilling process by providing effective cutting action.
Among the options you provided, the most relevant property in the context of hydraulic fracturing would be that silica sand can withstand great pressure.