Chesapeake’s Green Frac® program was founded in October 2009 to evaluate the types of chemical additives typically used in the process of hydraulic fracturing to determine their environmental friendliness. After evaluations are completed, Green Frac calls for the elimination of any additive not critical to the successful completion of the well and determines if greener alternatives are available for all essential additives.
An industry-leading program, Green Frac is a decisive move toward an ever greener fluid system. By reviewing all of the ingredients used in each hydraulic fracturing job, the program identifies chemicals that can be removed and tests alternatives for remaining additives. To date, the company has eliminated 25% of the additives used in hydraulic fracturing fluids in most of its shale plays.
Despite the fact that there is virtually no risk that the mixture can escape from the targeted zone, it is important to consistently ensure that our daily operations are as environmentally conscious as possible. Hydraulic fracturing fluids are primarily composed of approximately 98% sand and water, but the mixture does contain a small amount of chemicals. This mixture, or recipe, varies depending on the characteristics of the producing formation and the well.
Most of these chemical additives can be found in everyday household products such as laundry detergents, cleaners and beauty products. Some are even present in food and beverage items. While some additives have historically been classified as toxic (as are the chemicals used in many household products), many, such as pH-adjusting agents and chlorine-based sanitization aides, are found in approximately the same concentration as in your backyard swimming pool.
Despite their common household uses, Chesapeake, through our Green Frac program, is actively searching for and identifying more environmentally friendly options for these products.
Green Frac is also establishing simple guidelines for the company and its vendors to provide safe and proper handling of chemicals while on the surface and ensure environmentally friendly hydraulic fracturing operations. These guidelines will also be used to increase public understanding of the process and its necessity in the production of American natural gas and oil.