Physical chemistry could answer many questions on fracking
Tuesday, March 5, 2013 - 11:00
in Physics & Chemistry
(Phys.org) —By some estimates, continued growth in hydraulic fracturing (or "fracking"/"fraccing") could put the US on the path to self-sufficiency in energy over the next few decades. Yet despite the potential economic benefits, fracking has also generated controversy due to the unknown long-term consequences of all the drilling, pumping, fracturing, and extracting processes involved. Now, two scientists have identified several important scientific challenges encountered in fracking that can be addressed with physical chemistry, which could lead to improved fracking techniques.