University of Michigan researchers are conducting a detailed study of the potential environmental and societal effects of hydraulic fracturing, the controversial natural gas drilling process known as fracking. In hydraulic fracturing, large amounts of water, sand and chemicals are injected deep underground to break apart rock and free trapped natural gas.

U-M Assistant Professor Brian Ellis, who is studying the potential water quality impacts of hydraulic fracturing activity, explains the process and why it motivates his research interests. The video is part of a monthly BrownBag Learning Experience targeted at University of Michigan College of Engineering Alumni.

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