Additive and proppant choice improves fracture conductivity

New analytical tools, products, and techniques have greatly improved fracturing treatments. Ongoing research will continue to optimize this stimulation method for enhancing hydrocarbon recovery. This concluding part of a series describes the additives and proppants available for designing effective treatments. Some additives discussed are these: antifoaming agents, biocides, buffers, clay stabilizers, crosslinkers, diverting agents, fluid-loss additives, friction reducers, gel breakers, production chemicals, surfactants, and temperature stabilizers. Some proppants discussed are these: sand, resin-coated sand, ceramic beads, and limited amounts of sintered bauxite.