A "delay agent" in the context of fracking chemicals and additives refers to a substance added to hydraulic fracturing fluids to control the rate of gelation or thickening of the fluid.

During hydraulic fracturing, the fracturing fluid is pumped into the wellbore at high pressure to create fractures in the rock formation. This fluid typically contains proppants (such as sand or ceramic beads) suspended in a carrier fluid along with various additives. One crucial aspect of the fracking process is controlling the viscosity and gelation of the fluid to ensure optimal placement of proppants and effective fracturing of the rock.

Delay agents are used to slow down the onset of gelation or thickening of the fracturing fluid, allowing it to remain pumpable for a longer period. This delay is essential for ensuring that the fluid can be pumped deep into the wellbore and distributed evenly within the rock formation before it thickens and sets.

Delay agents work by temporarily inhibiting the crosslinking or polymerization reactions that lead to gelation in the fracturing fluid. By delaying the gelation process, these additives provide more time for the fluid to be pumped into the formation and for the fracturing process to occur.