Fracking

This revised, expanded edition of an instant classic explores the history, techniques, and materials used in the practice of induced hydraulic fracturing, while examining the environmental and economic impact. Since the first edition of Fracking was published, hydraulic fracturing has continued to be hotly debated. Credited with bringing the US and other countries closer to "energy independence," and blamed for tainted drinking water and earthquakes, hydraulic fracturing ("fracking") continues to be one of the hottest topics and fiercely debated issues in the energy industry and in politics. Covering all of the latest advances in fracking since the first edition was published, this expanded and updated revision still contains all of the valuable original content for the engineer or layperson to understand the technology and its ramifications. Useful not only as a tool for the practicing engineer to solve day-to-day problems that come with working in hydraulic fracturing, it is also a wealth of information covering the possible downsides of what many consider to be a very valuable practice. Many others consider it dangerous, and it is important to see both sides of the argument, from an apolitical, logical standpoint. While induced hydraulic fracturing utilizes many different engineering disciplines, this book explains these concepts in an easy to understand format. The primary use of this book shall be to increase the awareness of a new and emerging technology and what the various ramifications can be. The reader shall be exposed to many engineering concepts and terms. All of these ideas and practices shall be explained within the body. A science or engineering background is not required. This groundbreaking new volume: Covers all of the latest advances and innovations in hydraulic fracturing since the publication of the first edition Presents both sides of a very controversial subject in today's media, induced hydraulic fracturing, or "fracking" Covers the technology and methods used in hydraulic fracturing in easy-to-understand language, for the engineer and layperson alike Presents the environmental effects of hydraulic fracturing