A roadmap toward effective management of hydraulic fracturing wastewater from unconventional shale oil and gas extraction at the energy-water nexus

The development of the shale oil and gas (O&G) industry results in great opportunities and significant difficulties, with a massive quantity of hydraulic fracturing wastewater (HFW) generated being a critical challenge. In this study, through a bibliometric analysis, the current research evolution on shale O&G HFW management is summarized based on HFW characteristics, treatment methods, management strategies and environmental implications. The dominant and growing trends were mostly linked with the themes of being environmentally friendly or energy-efficient. The spatial-temporal variations of HFW volumes and quality including inorganic salts, organic compounds and microbiological characteristics were analyzed. The inadequate and inaccurate key data information about HFW necessitates the establishment of a database for characteristics of shale O&G HFW for its effective management. Subsequently, the latest advances in treatment technologies to recover fresh water, valuable components and waste heat from shale O&G HFW were discussed. The most fit-for-purpose HFW management strategies should be evaluated using life cycle sustainability assessment from the aspects of environmental, economic and social impacts. Finally, this study proposes innovative strategies to overcome the current hurdles in HFW management, offering valuable insights for advancing sustainable practices in the shale O&G sector.