Hydraulic Fracking

    Hydraulic Fracturing is a process by which gas and petroleum products can be removed from a rock source. Millions of gallons of water, sand , and chemicals are pumped underground to break apart the rock in the Marcellus Shale. These millions of gallons help create fissures and cracks along the shale. Providing the natural gas and petroleum products and avenue by which to escape. Once the well reached the Marcellus Shale it slowly turns horizontal as to allow for a larger area to be covered. Hydraulic fracking is used in every nine out of ten gas wells in the United States. Helping keep gas and energy prices lower then the natural average. While providing a relief to the energy crisis.

In the article I had to read this week hydraulic fracking was covered, more precisely how hydraulic fracking has led to water contamination in areas where it is implemented. In Wyoming the EPA drilled two water monitoring wells to the depth of 1000 ft. The test revealed high levels of carcinogenic chemicals such as benzene and 2 Butoxyethanol which are used in fracking. This problem occurred due to weakening of the cement barrier meant to protect the ground from the chemicals used in the well. Allowing gas and chemicals to leak into the ground and water source.   Cases water contamination due to fracking have been on the raise in reason years. With hydrocarbons, methane, and other fracking chemicals found in drinking water. Leading the EPA to cation resident not to drink their water and ventilate their home. Due to the explosive properties of methane found in the water. When the concentration is high enough instead of a stream of water, a stream of fire will emit from the water faucet. The EPA took these water samples and concluded their test in 2008. Residents had been complaining of  fouled water since the mid 1990s. The question is why did it take the EPA so long to respond when the problem had been made nice and clear? The only possible answer could be that the EPA is making deals with gas companies under the table to protect both their backs. At the cost of their consumers health.
    Just recently a bill to allow hydraulic fracking in North Carolina was vetoed. As long as their are health issues associated with fracking it will meet opposition were ever it goes. Scientist and Engineers alike need to acquire a better understanding of the process. To find out what exactly is happening thousands of feet below them in the well and shales. So that the current issues can be handled. Once advancements are made and the process becomes safer to the environment fracking could become one of our main sources of energy. Helping the United States and other countries depend less on fossil fuels. 

A video that explains fracking in a "hip" new way: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=timfvNgr_Q4

http://www.propublica.org/special/hydraulic-fracturing-national

http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=fracking-linked-water-contamination-federal-agency