Frac sand, also known as proppant, is a crucial material used in the process of hydraulic fracturing (or fracking) to extract oil and natural gas from deep underground rock formations. But what makes this type of sand so special?
✅ What is Frac Sand?
Frac sand is made from high-purity quartz silica and processed into strong, round, and uniformly sized grains. These grains are capable of withstanding the high pressure and temperature conditions of subsurface rock formations.
🔧 How is Frac Sand Used?
In hydraulic fracturing:
- Frac sand is mixed with water and chemicals to create fracking fluid.
- This fluid is pumped at high pressure into shale rock formations.
- The sand props open the fractures (cracks) created by the fluid.
- This keeps the pathways open, allowing oil and gas to flow back to the surface.
Without frac sand, those fractures would close — and oil production would slow or stop.
🌍 Why is Frac Sand Critical?
- Keeps fractures open in tight shale rock.
- Maximizes oil and gas extraction rates.
- Enhances conductivity and production performance.
- Supports long-term recovery from each well.
In short, frac sand increases the efficiency and profitability of oil and gas wells.
📈 Growing Demand for Frac Sand
With the global demand for energy and natural gas on the rise, frac sand is in high demand—especially in regions like:
- The United States (e.g., Permian Basin, Bakken, Marcellus)
- The Middle East and GCC countries
- North Africa and emerging shale basins worldwide
🏭 Frac Sand Specifications
Common mesh sizes:
- 20/40 mesh (coarse)
- 30/50 mesh
- 40/70 mesh (fine)
Key qualities:
- ≥99% SiO₂ content
- Low turbidity
- High crush resistance
🔎 Common Voice Search Questions
Q: What is frac sand used for?
A: Frac sand is used in hydraulic fracturing to keep underground rock fractures open, allowing oil and gas to flow.
Q: What is the difference between regular sand and frac sand?
A: Frac sand is more pure, stronger, and has a more consistent grain size than regular sand.
Q: Where can I buy frac sand in bulk?
A: Suppliers like Manara Minerals and Materials offer bulk frac sand with custom specifications and global shipping.