Inhibitors of Corrosion Induced by Sulfate-Reducing Bacteria

Abstract

Currently, a lot of researcher’s attention is devoted to the problem of microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC), since it causes huge damages to the economy, initiating the destruction of oil and gas pipelines and other underground constructions. To protect industrial materials from MIC effects an organic chemical inhibitors are massively used. However, the problem of their use is associated with toxicity, dangerous for the environment that caused the need for development the alternative methods of MIC repression. At the review, the data about different types of inhibitors-biocides usage has provided. The chemical inhibitors features are given and the mechanisms of their protective action are considered. The screening results and use of alternative and eco-friendly methods for managing the effect of corrosion caused by sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) are highlighted. Methods of joint application of chemical inhibitors and enhancers, such as chelators, biosurfactants, which contribute to reducing the concentration of chemical inhibitors, are discussed. The possibility of disruption of the quorum sensing interaction in the bacterial community to prevent the biofilm formation is considered. The information about the use of natural plant extracts, food waste, as well as by-products of agro-industrial production to combat MIC is provided. The development of biological corrosion control methods (to combat MIC) is of great importance for creating the best alternative and eco-friendly approaches to managing the effect of corrosion caused by SRB. The analysis of the literature data indicates the need to find the best alternatives and environmentally friendly solutions.