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Fracking. Hydraulic fracturing technique
Lately in the media we do not stop hearing protests with reference to this Anglo-Saxon word Fracking to refer to the technique of hydraulic fracturing for the extraction of unconventional gas or oil. This technique is mainly used to extract the gas trapped in the rocks, although in recent years it has been deriving and accentuating the extraction of oil, especially in those countries that are not traditionally producers.
> When we talk about hydraulic fracturing or fracking, it is not something new, it is a common practice in the United States that has already been proven to lead to a series of serious environmental problems.
Fracking infographic
From the next infographic about fracking we can schematically identify the gas production process.
I think that in the image we offer we can see the process -in all its steps- to obtain that precious good as gas, which basically consists of drilling the surface vertically around 1 to 5 km, when we have reached the appropriate depth. we proceed to drill horizontally, between 1 to 1.5 km approximately. In the flat part, water, sand and chemicals are injected under pressure in order to produce cracks in the rock so that the gas can flow to the surface.
Video of gas extraction process by fracking
Advantages of the fracking technique
- Creation of a new industry.
- Reactivation of economic activity in the area of implantation.
- Generate employment.
- The prices of gas, oil derived mainly from gasoline, are getting cheaper.
Disadvantages of fracking
- The Risks during drilling (Explosion, gas leak, landslides)
- Contamination of aquifers: Possibility that the fractures or perforations produced reach aquifers, contaminating the water with the fluids used in the fracturing.
- Air pollution: Possible leaks, remembering that unconventional gas has an important part of methane (Methane = produces a powerful greenhouse effect, more than CO2)
- Landscape impact: Silver occupies an elevated surface, notable alteration of the landscape and terrain
- Economic speculation appears.
- Affection to human health.
- It has been shown to increase seismic risk.
Of course, here each one must weigh the advantages or disadvantages but we already know that everything related to consuming fossil energy; Oil, gas or coal is an incentive for the Administration with its hidden "lobbies" belonging to the large energy companies, but I definitely see increasingly clear - for my part - that it is necessary to invest in renewable energy in order to build a better future.
So that we focus on Spain. I present you a map where we can see the current surveys, those who have requested permission … etc (HERE is from 2012). It does not mean that all the present companies use Fracking but it does mean that the movement that exists in Spain has surprised me.
An article of interest in this portal is Fracking in the economic devaluation of homes where it is shown that it is affecting the value of real estate in those areas where fracking is acting.
