A new study by the University of Texas strengthens the links between earthquakes and the disposal of wastewater from oil and gas operations deep underground.
The study found that the depth of wells drilled for wastewater disposal, the volume of water, and the rate at which the water is pumped into the well are factors that contribute to the increase in earthquakes in regions where oil and gas is produced.
The problems come when disposal wells, drilled thousands of feet deep, reach so-called basement rock formations, which are older, more brittle and have larger faults.
The additional pressure from wastewater can cause the faults to slip, leading to earthquakes, according to the study.
Source: FuelFix
