APNewsBreak: Potentially harmful chemicals being used to drill for natural gas in Pa.

APNewsBreak: Strong chemicals used in Pa. drilling

HARRISBURG, Pa. — Compounds associated with neurological problems or other serious health effects are among the chemicals being used to drill natural gas wells in Pennsylvania, according to a list obtained by The Associated Press.

Department of Environmental Protection officials said Monday that they plan to post the list online this week. It is believed to be the first complete catalog of natural gas drilling chemicals used in Pennsylvania, where the rapidly growing industry is pursuing the rich Marcellus Shale reserve.

Officials say they assembled the list using information that drilling companies are required to provide. The chemicals are used in a process called hydraulic fracturing.

Environmental advocates worry the chemicals are poisoning underground drinking water sources, although state officials say they know of no example of that happening in Pennsylvania or elsewhere. Industry officials say the chemicals pose no threat because they are heavily diluted by water and are handled safely.

Many of the compounds used in the solutions are also present in consumer products, such as salt, cosmetics, gasoline, pesticides, solvents, glues, paints and tobacco smoke.