Sustainable Lignocellulosic Proppants from Wood Waste: A Low-Density Alternative for Unconventional Oil and Gas Extraction

The growing demand for sustainable and efficient proppants in unconventional oil and gas development has driven interest in biomass-based alternatives to conventional high-density materials. This study proposes a low-density proppant derived from sawdust, a widely available byproduct of the wood processing industry. Through wettability modification involving hydrophilic and hydrophobic treatments, the sawdust fragments exhibited improved interfragment bonding, compressive strength, and acid resistance. The modified proppant achieved an ultralow apparent density of 0.16 g cm-3 and demonstrated favorable transportability in water without additional chemical additives, reducing the need for high-viscosity thickeners and minimizing formation damage. Under closure stress, the modified sawdust compacted into dense support pillar structures, maintaining fracture conductivity while forming layered flow channels conducive to hydrocarbon migration. This innovative approach not only enhances the mechanical performance and transport behavior of modified sawdust pillar proppants but also highlights the potential of lignocellulosic waste valorization in hydraulic fracturing applications. Ultimately, this work demonstrates a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution that aligns with the growing emphasis on environmental responsibility and sustainable energy practices in hydraulic fracturing operations.