Chapter 1 - Failure of the metallic structures due to microbiologically induced corrosion and the techniques for protection

Abstract

Microbiologically induced corrosion (MIC) is a corrosion type that is harmful to most engineering materials. MIC deteriorates the metal surface through the metabolic activity of microorganisms. Since the 19th century, scientists have been trying to explain the role of microorganisms in corrosion. The damage due to MIC is broken down into a three-step process: creation of biofilm, change of environment at the metal surface, and deterioration of the metal. The common bacteria associated with MIC are sulfate-reducing bacteria, acid-producing bacteria, and iron-reducing bacteria. The most common forms of corrosion influenced by MIC are pitting corrosion, crevice corrosion, and stress corrosion cracking. This chapter discusses the types of MIC, the mechanisms of corrosion damage due to MIC, the common methods used for detecting and monitoring MIC, and the methods of materials protection from MIC attack.