ISO 13503

Measurement of properties of proppants used in hydraulic fracturing and gravel-packing operations

Applicability: The ISO 13503 series applies to proppants, completion fluids, stimulation fluids, and flow-control devices used in oil and gas well completions worldwide. Part 2 and Part 5 specifically address proppant testing and are the international equivalents of API 19C and API conductivity test methods. The series is intended for manufacturers, operators, and independent laboratories involved in well completion and hydraulic fracturing on a global basis.

Purpose: Each part specifies standardized laboratory procedures for characterizing physical, chemical, and performance properties of well completion materials. Part 2 covers proppant particle size, roundness and sphericity, crush resistance, bulk density, acid solubility, and turbidity — the core data needed to select proppants for fracturing jobs. Part 5 measures long-term proppant pack conductivity under simulated downhole closure stress, which is the key input for hydraulic fracture design models and production forecasting.