ABSTRACT
Recent advances in drilling technology have resulted in a dramatic expansion in exploration for and development of oil and natural gas. Historically, single vertical wells were drilled into hydrocarbon traps in permeable rock formations where gas and oil had migrated to. Starting in the 1940s, water, sand, and other additives under high pressure were used to fracture low permeability hydrocarbon source rocks like shales. Due to the high cost of these operations relative to the value of the oil and gas recovered, this practice had only limited applicability. Recent advances in horizontal drilling technology coupled with higher prices for oil and natural gas have resulted in a significant increase in hydraulic fracturing or fracking. In addition, CO2 emissions from natural gas combustion are 30%–40% lower than coal, NOx emissions are 80% lower for natural gas, and emissions are almost 100% lower for SO2, particulates, and mercury compared with coal [1]. Therefore, natural gas is seen as an acceptable bridge fuel until more sustainable energy sources become viable. This will likely result in greater development of natural gas resources in the future.
