Cryogenic Nitrogen as a Hydraulic Fracturing Fluid in the Devonian Shale

TLDR

Liquid nitrogen can serve as a safe hydraulic fracturing fluid when properly engineered. The study demonstrates the successful use of liquid nitrogen fracturing to stimulate Devonian shale in Eastern Kentucky. The method relies on liquid nitrogen’s extreme cold (−300 to −320 °F) to generate thermal tensile stresses that fracture the Devonian shale and freeze treated water into a diverter that instantaneously solidifies upon contact.

Abstract

Abstract With proper engineering, liquid nitrogen can be used safely as a hydraulic fracturing fluid. The fluid's extremely cold temperature (−300 to −320°F) will induce thermal tensile stresses in the fracture face. These stresses exceed the tensile strength of the Devonian shale, causing the fracture face to fragment. Because of the extreme temperatures, treated water can be used as a diverter between fracturing stages. This water freezes instantly when it contacts the first treatment zone. This paper discusses the successful application of this technology to stimulate the Devonian shale in Eastern Kentucky.