The Mineralogy of Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion
Abstract
Microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) is caused by the presence and activities of microorganisms. MIC is best understood as microbiologically mediated reactions with metal oxides, disruptions of passivating layers, or formation/dissolution of minerals. The following sections will review the mineralogy associated with MIC. The relationships between microbiologically mediated reactions and metal oxides define many of the mechanisms for MIC. For example, MIC can involve disruption of a passivating oxide (e.g., underdeposit corrosion), conversion of a protective oxide to a less protective layer (e.g., sulfide derivatization), or removal of an oxide layer (e.g., metal oxide reduction). Microorganisms can also produce minerals, particularly sulfides, which could not be produced abiotically in most near-surface aquatic environments. Consequently, in some cases sulfides are mineralogical indicators of MIC.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2015
- Accession Number
- ADA625737
Entities
People
- Brenda J. Little
- Jason S. Lee
- Richard I. Ray
- Tammie L. Gerke
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory