Method for studying stabilization of localized corrosion on carbon steel by sulfate-reducing bacteria

Journal Article · Sun Jun 01 04:00:00 EDT 1997 · Corrosion

DOI:https://doi.org/10.5006/1.3280487· OSTI ID:495443

Campaignolle, X ^[1]; Crolet, J L ^[2]

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1. Univ. de Bordeaux 1, Arcachon (France). Lab. d`Oceanographie Biologique
2. Elf Aquitaine, Pau (France)

Initiation of a corrosion pit in plain carbon steel (CS) was simulated by preconditioning a small area and a larger concentric area as an anode and cathode, respectively. Preconditioning was achieved by applying a galvanic current between the electrodes. During this initial step, the effect of sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) on resulting polarization of this artificial galvanic cell was investigated. The previously conditioned electrodes then were left short-circuited, and the naturally flowing galvanic current was measured using a zero-resistance ammeter. In the presence of SRB biofilms, an active and naturally stable galvanic cell was achieved. In sterile conditions, the coupling current either was unstable or very low. This technique was aimed at studying risk factors linking bacterial contamination to the onset of rapid pitting corrosion.

• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• OSTI ID: 495443
• Journal Information: Corrosion, Journal Name: Corrosion Journal Issue: 6 Vol. 53; ISSN 0010-9312; ISSN CORRAK
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE
55 BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE
BASIC STUDIES
BIOLOGICAL FOULING
CARBON STEELS
ELECTROCHEMICAL CELLS
PETROLEUM INDUSTRY
PITTING CORROSION
SULFATE-REDUCING BACTERIA