Application of Polymers in Hydraulic Fracturing Fluids: A Review

Multistage hydraulic fracturing significantly increased oil and gas production in the past two decades. After drilling, fracturing fluids are pumped into the formation to create fractures that provide pathways to the hydrocarbon. These fluids are usually viscous to provide the mechanical power to frack the formation and carry the proppants, which keep the fractures open. After fracking, the viscous gel should be broken to allow the flowback of the fluid to avoid formation damage. The key player in the fracturing fluid system is the polymer, which is responsible for the fluid viscosity of the system. All other additives are added to improve the polymer’s performance under different conditions and reduce formation damage. The formation damage appears as fine migration, residue precipitation, adsorption, and wettability alteration. All of these types are affected by the polymer types and behavior. This paper reviews the polymers used in fracturing treatments, their classifications, preparations, mechanisms, degradation behavior, and interactions with other fracturing fluid additives. It also covers their impact on the formation damage and environmental concerns raised with fracturing treatments, including spills and flaring activities. The paper discussed the cost of the main polymers used in fracturing fluids and suggested practical recommendations to select a robust, cost-effective polymer. By integrating these concepts, the review gives the researcher the necessary knowledge to design and prepare effective fracturing fluids tailored to a wide range of operational scenarios.