Lectures on Geological Survey by International Experts Focuses on Shale Gas Extraction
On 23nd July, China Geological Survey (CGS) held the 1st Lectures on Geological Survey by International Experts and invited Professor Max Hu, from University of Texas, to give a lecture on the public-concerned key technologies of shale gas extraction. Max Hu introduced in detail underground drinking water contamination problems in the US in the process of shale gas extraction and proposed countermeasures.
Shale gas is a clean, low-carbon, efficient unconventional gas resources. The US is the first country in the world to achieve large-scale shale gas production and commercial use. The first shale gas well in the US commenced production in 1981 and its production exceeded 230 billion cubic meters in 2012, which was2.66 times that of China's natural gas production. Max Hu said shale gas extraction in the US had caused public suspicion, such as underground drinking water contamination, exposure to more earthquake risks induced by the extraction activities, greenhouse gases escape, consumption of freshwater resources, ecological impact and so on. Max Hu proposed, the risks of water resources, environment and human health caused by shale gas extraction could be controlled effectively by reasonably treating fracturing reflux, reducing greenhouse gas escape, strengthening seal of wells, preventing surface fracturing fluid leak, conducting environmental monitoring during the whole pre and post extraction process and from the government effectively supervising oil and gas industry enterprises. The latest research of Max Hu team showed shale geological feature was the key factor affecting the rate of shale gas extraction and how to improve the rate was the decisive condition for sustainable development of the industry.
Participants expressed that the academic exchanges helped to further understand the latest technological achievements and development of shale gas extraction in the world, jointly explore how to solve the difficulties in the field and environmental protection and etc, thus promote the healthy development of China's shale gas industry.
In order to further promote international cooperation, China Geological Survey will continue to invite leading experts overseas to introduce the latest ideas and progress of international geological technology by organizing a series of international cooperation forums in geological survey.