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Baker Hughes to reveal fracking components

Disclosure keeps specific blends protected, oil services company says.

By Daniel J. Graeber
Baker Hughes disclosing fracking fluid chemicals. UPI/Kevin Dietsch
Baker Hughes disclosing fracking fluid chemicals. UPI/Kevin Dietsch | License Photo

HOUSTON, Oct. 1 (UPI) -- Oil services company Baker Hughes said Wednesday it implemented its policy of fully disclosing the chemicals it uses in hydraulic fracturing.

"The policy we are implementing today is consistent with our belief that we are partners in solving industry challenges, and that we have a responsibility to provide the public with the information they want and deserve," Baker Hughes Chief Strategy Officer Derek Mathieson said in a statement.

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Energy companies have been reluctant to disclose all of the chemicals used during hydraulic fracturing. The drilling practice, known also as fracking, involves the injection of large volumes of water mixed with abrasives and trace amounts of chemicals to coax oil and natural gas out of shale formations.

The company in March started the implementation process needed to reveal fracking fluid ingredients.

The disclosure is at odds with other major companies like Schlumberger and Halliburton, who argue their chemical components should be protected.

Baker said it could disclose the chemical components without detailing specific blends used in their fracking fluids. Mathieson said the aim of the release was to not only increase public trust, but also to protect the innovations needed to keep the shale boom alive in the United States.

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"Introducing greater transparency about the chemicals used in the hydraulic fracturing process and protecting the ability to innovate are not conflicting goals," he said.

Baker's disclosure forms are available at FracFocus.org.

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