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 raising a US$2.4M secured convertible note across three milestone-gated tranches (A US$500K, B US$800K, C US$1.1M). Minimum ticket US$25,000. Public landing: https://inbasinsand.com