Paper: Choosing a Fracturing Fluid

Many papers have been written concerning the planning and design of fracturing treatments. Most have involved proposed production increases, fracture conductivity, fluid coefficient and fracture area. This paper will delve into the simple mathematics of cost of fracturing fluids. A total cost comparison of water versus oil based on the general treatment of each fluid, horsepower requirements at equal rates, and fracture area per dollar are presented. Lease crude, refined oil, commercial brine, fresh water and a 40-60 mixture of brine and freshwater will be considered.