What is corrosion by microorganisms?
Microorganism influenced metal corrosion (MIC), or biocorrosion, is due to a chemical reaction between the material and an oxidant, usually oxygen and the H+ cation. Rust is the most common example of metal corrosion.
Many non-ferrous metals can be corroded by contact with air, soil or water, in the presence of biofilm.
What are the consequences of biocorrosion?
For example, electronic equipment stored in humid and hot conditions can be attacked by fungi that produce an acidic substance. Special technical equipment is intended for use in tropical countries.
Water pipes can have a ferric hydroxide deposit, sometimes caused by bacteria(Sphaerotilus or Galionella sp.).
Cooling towers are susceptible to degradation as well.
How does biocorrosion occur?
We can help you detect whether there is a risk of corrosion by testing for the presence of sulfate-reducing bacteria, using the MICROTEST SR.