ABSTRACT
The main objective of a hydraulic fracturing treatment is to provide sufž- cient contrast between the reservoir deliverability and the permeability of the fracture so that the well is able to achieve its maximum productivity over the economic life of the well. During pumping, the fracture is held open by the µuid pressure, but once pumping has stopped and the pressure drops because of µuid loss, the fracture will close on itself and lose most of the permeability that has been created. To prevent this from occurring, a material is included in the fracturing µuid that will support the fracture once the pressure has dropped. This granular material is called a propping agent or proppant.
