M-I Swaco
2012
Executive Summary
This document is intended for:
• Oilfield operators, hydraulic fracturing service companies, chemical manufacturers, and water treatment companies in the design of fracturing processes and management of water needs and issues.
• Regulators who provide direction and develop policy regarding hydraulic fracturing operations and water management issues.
• Other stakeholders with an interest in water management, to understand the hydraulic fracturing process and the considerations that must be taken into account in the use and reuse of
water for hydraulic fracturing operations.
Water has become a major economic factor in current fracturing technologies. The industry has learned that water need not be fresh, but may be reused if the chemistry is correct or can be
adapted.
This study aims to identify a methodology, in the form of a Decision Tree and Guidance Manual, and supporting Appendices and Case Studies, so that producers can work with service companies
to determine the limiting factors and mitigation or control scenarios for using water with high salinity or other undesirable constituents for making up fracturing fluid. The methodology and technologies that have been suggested incorporate the science and practice of hydraulic fracturing with fracturing fluid management and treatment technologies.
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