Proppant is a material used in hydraulic fracturing, a technique employed in the extraction of oil and natural gas. Its primary purpose is to keep fractures in the rock open, allowing hydrocarbons to flow more freely. Common types of proppants include sand, resin-coated sand, and ceramic materials. The choice of proppant can affect the efficiency of the extraction process. For instance, ceramic proppants are often used in high-pressure environments due to their strength, while sand proppants are more cost-effective for less demanding applications. Proper selection is crucial for maximizing production rates and minimizing operational costs.