The Mechanism of Anaerobic (Microbial) Corrosion.
Abstract
This report in the form of three papers describes research into the role of bacteria in anaerobic corrosion processes. During the year we have given more evidence for a novel mechanism of anaerobic corrosion in which a volatile, highly reactive phosporous compound is produced as a result of the activities of sulfate-reducing bacteria (Desulfovibio desuluricans). The corrosion product is an amorphous type of iron phosphide which can be detected by the formation of phosphine upon its acidification. Phosphine (in addition to H2S) has been detected from all the cases of suspected anaerobic corrosion (including tubercles from the inside of water pipes) examined so far. In examining the headspace over growing cultures of Desulfovibio to detect this volatile phosphorus containing compound, using a gas chromatograph (GC) with a flame photometric detector (FPD) specific for phosphorus and sulfur, two sulfur compounds, in addition to H2S, were detected and identified. These compounds, methylmercaptan, and dimethyldisulfide, were found to be relatively non-corrosive to iron under anaerobic conditions. No volatile phosphorus compounds were detected.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1982
- Accession Number
- ADA131223
Entities
People
- Gregory J. Olson
- Warren P. Iverson
Organizations
- National Institute of Standards and Technology