Environmental Concerns on Oil Extraction Methods

The global dependence on oil and resources is unquestionable. Extracting these resources deep below the Earth’s surface can be extremely difficult, if at all possible. Advancements in extraction science have allowed drillers to reach oil previously unreachable. However, certain techniques employed have caused concerns among environmental scientists.
In the process of drilling into an oil or natural gas reservoir, debris and other matter may clog the bore hole preventing a majority of the oil reserves from being extracted. Hydraulic fracturing is a technique that creates new pathways for oil to be released by injecting water mixed with chemicals underground at high pressures. The pressure of fluid being injected is greater than the pressure in the formation. This causes the formations to crack or fracture and the oil or gas flows more freely out of the formation. Scientists are concerned that some of the injected fluids may remain trapped underground long after the oil is removed.

Stimulant fluids used in this technique are combined with chemicals. One commonly used stimulant fluid is diesel fuel, which contains benzene, ethyl benzene, toluene, xylene, naphthalene and other chemicals. Even a small amount of a chemical such as benzene can contaminate significant amounts of underground water. Studies have linked exposure to benzene with cancer, birth defects, and respiratory disease.

Hydraulic fracturing is commonly used in coal bed methane production areas. Many coal beds contain aquifers which meet the standards to be considered underground sources of drinking water. Since hydraulic fracturing is being used in these areas, these underground sources of drinking water are at risk of contamination from harmful chemicals. Studies have shown that 20-40% of the fracturing fluids remain in the rock indicating that contamination is not just a short term problem, but one that could continue for years to come. These chemicals not only affect the drinking water but have adverse effects on the geological formations, such as causing decreased permeability.

Companies, such as Triple Diamond Energy Corporation, are now implementing safer hydraulic fracturing practices to decrease the risk of drinking water contamination. Some of those practices include using sand and water in the stimulant fluid without any additives, using non-toxic additives, and eliminating the use of diesel fuels. Lining the backflow pits with impermeable coatings around the borehole, which reduces re-absorption of fracturing fluids, as well as collecting and storing these back flow wastes in steel tanks are some other examples environmental exposure to potentially harmful chemicals can be dealt with.

Implementing measures such as these will not only help our nation meet its goals today, but also ensure a safe and healthy environment for future generations.

Chris Jent is the chief marketing officer of Triple Diamond Energy Corp. Triple Diamond Energy specializes in acquiring the highest quality prime oil and gas properties. For more information, visit http://www.triplediamondenergycorp.blogspot.com.