Soil Remediation using Hydraulic Fracturing

Abstract

Hydraulic fracturing, a technology initially developed for oil and gas production, has emerged as a valuable tool in environmental remediation. This article explores the use of hydraulic fracturing for enhancing soil and groundwater cleanup processes by improving permeability in low-porosity soils and bedrock. The process involves injecting a pressurized slurry to create fractures, which are then kept open with proppants to facilitate treatment methodologies such as pump and treat, vapor extraction, and biosparging. Two primary applications, soil fracturing and bedrock fracturing, are discussed, highlighting their unique approaches and benefits in improving contaminant removal. The article also addresses the composition and role of fracturing fluids in maintaining environmental safety during remediation operations. By increasing permeability and enabling efficient access to contaminants, hydraulic fracturing serves as a critical tool for advancing in-situ environmental remediation techniques.