Additives present in hydrofracturing fluids
| Type of additive | Example | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Acid | Hydrochloric acid | Helps dissolve minerals and start cracks in the rock |
| Antibacterial agent | Glutaraldehyde | Eliminates corrosion-producing bacteria |
| Iron control | Citric acid | Prevents precipitation of metal oxides |
| Breaker | Ammonium persulfate | Allows a delayed break down of the fracturing gel |
| Corrosion inhibitor | N,N-Dimethyl formamide | Prevents corrosion of the pipe |
| Crosslinker | Borates | Maintains fluid viscosity |
| Surfactant | Isopropanol | Increases fluid viscosity |
| Friction reducer | Petroleum distillate | Minimizes friction |
| Gel guar gum | Hydroxyethyl cellulose | Helps suspend sand in water |
| Clay stabilizer | Potassium chloride | Brine carrier fluid |
| pH Adjusting agent | Sodium carbonate | Adjusts and controls pH of the fluid |
| Scale inhibitor | Ethylene glycol | Reduces scale deposits in pipe |