There is actually an enormous difference in the types of proppants used in frac jobs.

There is actually an enormous difference in the types of proppants used in frac jobs.There are a number of properties that are of importance when considering proppant: grain size distribution, roundness, and compressive strength to name a few.I'll try to summarize the enormous scope of proppant selection in just a few sentences.
It should be noted, however, just because a high density ceramic (ceramic or sintered bauxite) has a higher compressive strength doesn't mean it is a better proppant in all cases.If one were to pump a high density ceramic at shallow depths, you would actually make a poorer well than if you pumped sand.Not only do you pay more for the high density ceramic than you do for sand, but at low confining pressures,sand is actually more conductive! Believe it or not,there are many Ph.Ds who spend their entire careers studying proppants and how to select the best proppant.