Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion of Industrial Alloys

Abstract

Abstract A multidisciplinary group of scientists at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute was asked by the Materials Technology Institute of the Chemical Process Industries to survey the available literature on Microbiological Influenced Corrosion (MIC) and to report their findings relative to the evidence for MIC of iron and mild steels, stainless steels, copper alloys, aluminum and its aluminum alloys, nickel-chrome alloys, and titanium. Further the group was asked to report the state of the information relating to the mechanism(s) whereby MIC of each material occurs, methods of prevention and methods of detection in the laboratory and in the field. Finally, they were asked to develop a list of priority areas for research. The group found evidence in the literature for MIC of all alloy groups except nickel-chrome and titanium. Detailed mechanisms for MIC are generally unknown. Protection from MIC and reliable methods of detecting it are not generally available. Details and suggested research areas are discussed herein.