Abstract
Hydraulic fracturing has become one of the most popular techniques for exploring sustainable energy sources. However, friction is associated with the entire fracturing process, presenting significant challenges for development. Facing the huge friction challenges, this review is elaborated in the following three aspects: (1) the fundamentals of hydraulic fracturing, including three aspects of rock fracture mechanism, fracturing fluid, and proppant; (2) the friction challenges in hydraulic fracturing, which mainly exist in friction along the path and friction near wellbore; (3) hydraulic fracturing drag reduction technologies, which are considered proppant segment plug, fracturing fluid viscosity enhancement, and proppant surface modification technologies. Therefore, we should not only understand the challenges in hydraulic fracturing but also know how to mitigate them. Additionally, we call for a strong focus on environmentally friendly, green friction-reducing technologies for oil and gas fields in the future development of the fracturing industry.
Highlights
Hydraulic fracturing is a key process to the exploitation of oil and gas and plays an important role in enhancing oil recovery. It consists of four major processes: downhole pressure-out, fracture formation and extension [1], proppant filling [2], and oil/gas channel formation
Fracture formation and extension is the core technology of fracking, which is related to the distribution of in situ stresses, the mechanical properties of rocks, the properties of the fracturing fluid and the proppant properties [12]
The main factors affecting the friction along the path is the coiled tubing diameter, fracturing fluid viscosity, and proppant concentration
Summary
Hydraulic fracturing (fracking) is a key process to the exploitation of oil and gas and plays an important role in enhancing oil recovery. The fracturing fluid could lubricate and reduce drag, but the proppant filling and propping are still affected by friction, which cause wear and tear. The challenge fracturing technology and stimulating innovations, as well as boosting the profit of oil/gas is how to reduce friction during fracturing. Fracture formation and extension is the core technology of fracking, which is related to the distribution of in situ stresses, the mechanical properties of rocks, the properties of the fracturing fluid and the proppant properties [12]. During the fracturing process, the homogeneity of the formation stress should be as close to perfection as possible, which reduces chances of friction resistance and improves the fracturing effectiveness.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
