Current Situation, Challenges and Development Trends of Fracturing Flowback Fluids Treatment in Ordos Basin, China

Abstract

Ordos Basin, a critical energy base in China, faces significant environmental challenges due to the complex composition of fracturing flowback fluids generated from hydraulic fracturing. This fluid, containing water, gases, salts, heavy metals, organic matter, and radioactive elements, is characterized by high total dissolved solid, high chemical oxygen demand, high total suspended solid, strong emulsification, and variable water quality. Current treatment methods, which integrate physical, chemical, and biological technologies, include the reinjection and reuse but are limited by issues such as the absence of oxidative viscosity reduction, lack of closed-loop filtrate treatment, unverified pollutant removal efficiency, and unclear resource recovery pathways. Future advancements aim to enhance treatment efficiency, promote resource reuse, and adopt green and intelligent technologies. Innovations like anti-fouling membrane materials, optimized microbial degradation, efficient desalination, heavy metal removal, and intelligent monitoring systems are expected to address these challenges, ensuring sustainable oil and gas development while protecting the environment.