Hydraulic fracturing is used to release natural gas from shale formations.  Its use has contributed to the deterioration of air quality in several regions that were near or downwind of natural gas production basins.  A field campaign was conducted in southwestern Pennsylvania on 16-18 June 2012 to investigate the impact of gas production operations by collecting whole air samples during both day and nighttime hours in a regular grid pattern.  The samples were analyzed at Appalachian State University for CH4, CO2, C2-C10 NMHCs, C1-C2 halocarbons, C1-C5 alkyl nitrates and selected reduced sulfur compounds.  In situ measurements of O3, CH4, CO2, NO, NOy, HCHO, and a range of VOCs were conducted at the mobile lab trailer.  Our measurements revealed elevated levels of CH4 and CO2 in the southwest and northeast portions of the study area.  The widespread impact of the emissions associated with gas production was observed throughout the region.

Spatial variation of organic volatile compounds associated with gas production operations in southwestern Pennsylvania

245th National Meeting (2013)

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