Terrestrial deep shales and their interfaces are carbon-rich environments that represent a significant component of the U.S. energy portfolio. Energy resources in these environments have recently been accessed via hydraulic fracturing (i.e. “fracking”) technologies that introduce a complex mixture of biocides, surfactants, and other compounds into the shale matrix. This project aims to improve our understanding of microbial diversity and metabolism in deep shale, with implications for novel enzyme discovery and energy development. The findings are expected to advance both fundamental subsurface science and contribute knowledge for industrial and government partners interested in short and long-term impacts of microbial and geochemical processes on energy extraction.
Proposer’s Name: Kelly Wrighton, The Ohio State University