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Review
. 2023 Sep 5;47(5):fuad041.
doi: 10.1093/femsre/fuad041.

Microbiologically influenced corrosion-more than just microorganisms

J Knisz  1 , R Eckert  2 , L M Gieg  3 , A Koerdt  4 , J S Lee  5 , E R Silva  6   7 , T L Skovhus  8 , B A An Stepec  9 , S A Wade  10
Affiliations
Review

Microbiologically influenced corrosion-more than just microorganisms

J Knisz et al. FEMS Microbiol Rev. .

Abstract

Microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) is a phenomenon of increasing concern that affects various materials and sectors of society. MIC describes the effects, often negative, that a material can experience due to the presence of microorganisms. Unfortunately, although several research groups and industrial actors worldwide have already addressed MIC, discussions are fragmented, while information sharing and willingness to reach out to other disciplines are limited. A truly interdisciplinary approach, which would be logical for this material/biology/chemistry-related challenge, is rarely taken. In this review, we highlight critical non-biological aspects of MIC that can sometimes be overlooked by microbiologists working on MIC but are highly relevant for an overall understanding of this phenomenon. Here, we identify gaps, methods, and approaches to help solve MIC-related challenges, with an emphasis on the MIC of metals. We also discuss the application of existing tools and approaches for managing MIC and propose ideas to promote an improved understanding of MIC. Furthermore, we highlight areas where the insights and expertise of microbiologists are needed to help progress this field.

Keywords: biocorrosion; biodeterioration; interdisciplinarity; microbiologically influenced corrosion; multiple lines of evidence.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
MLOE used in the MIC assessment. Puzzle pieces represent the four main categories of evidence with typical types of measurement. To solve the puzzle, evidence from most or all four categories is needed.
Figure 2.
Figure 2.
Depiction of the potential increasing complexity of different combinations of microorganisms in model systems that can be used to study MIC. Note that the depiction of the EPS and metal surface changes is not intended to indicate how the different model microbial systems affect corrosion outcomes.
Figure 3.
Figure 3.
Examples of different strategies used for MIC control.
Figure 4.
Figure 4.
The main steps involved in developing an MIC mitigation strategy, along with associated challenges to attain effective solutions.
Figure 5.
Figure 5.
MIC monitoring requires integrative data analyses using a comprehensive range of tools.
Figure 6.
Figure 6.
Key parameters associated with EC corrosion testing.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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