ISO 13503-2 — "Measurement of properties of proppants used in hydraulic fracturing and gravel-packing operations" — is the international standard that defines how frac sand is physically characterised. Paired with API 19C, it is the baseline specification that any qualified supplier in Vaca Muerta must meet. In-Basin Sand's Malargüe silica has been tested under this methodology through an independent SGS Minerals (Chile) report.
ISO 13503-2 specifies test procedures for: particle size distribution (sieve analysis), sphericity and roundness (Krumbein), acid solubility, turbidity, bulk density and apparent density, short-term conductivity, and crush resistance. Any operator or service-company qualification exercise for new proppant in Vaca Muerta will reference these measurements.
| Dimension | ISO 13503-2 | API 19C |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Measurement methods | Properties and thresholds |
| Issuer | ISO (international) | American Petroleum Institute |
| Typical use | Lab procedure reference | Supplier qualification |
The SGS Minerals (Chile) report on Malargüe silica has been performed under the ISO 13503-2 measurement methodology. That report documents sieve analysis, sphericity, roundness, turbidity and attrition. The resulting data is the foundation for any operator-side qualification.
The Argentine Oil Secretariat does not publish its own proppant spec; operators align on API 19C and ISO 13503-2 as de-facto standards. Service companies (SLB, Halliburton and domestic specialists) require suppliers to produce testable data against these standards before listing on a frac supply panel.
The SGS report is available under NDA via the In-Basin Sand data room. Requests can be directed through /investors.
In-Basin Sand is running a €150,000 secured convertible bridge closing 29 April 2026. Public landing: https://inbasinsand.com