THE MICROBIAL CORROSION OF IRON
Abstract
The investigation showed the potential and magnitude for microbial corrosive effects on iron in marine environments. Aerobic and anaerobic corrosion cells can be developed by a wide variety of microorganisms. Aerobic corrosion is developed through metabolic oxygen consumption by bacteria on localized iron surfaces where organic food is present. Alternating bands of aerobic-anaerobic zones are formed in sediments by layering effects of deposition involving different amounts of organic materials. The layering does produce oxygen differential cells that are very corrosive. Anaerobic corrosion cells are produced by depolarization of the iron due to proton or hydrogen uptake. The activity is proportional to hydrogenase activity or to the presence of hydrogen acceptors in the area. Suitable tests involving weight loss of iron test coupons can be employed to show the corrosive nature of microorganisms in the environment.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1967
- Accession Number
- AD0653368
Entities
People
- Carl H. Oppenheimer
Organizations
- University of Miami