Microbially influenced corrosion (MIC)

Researchers at UA are characterizing the influences of various microbiological processes on the corrosion of various alloys. We apply a unique combination of innovative electrochemical and microbiological techniques to determine mechanisms and early indicators of microbially influenced corrosion (MIC).

UA Research

  • Apply a variety of approaches to understand the roles of microorganisms in corrosion
  • Use model microorganisms, organisms isolated from systems experiencing MIC, and mixed microbial consortia from those systems
  • Study microorganisms in situ, including measurements of chemical indicators of microbiological activities and culture-independent approaches to characterizing microbial communities and activities
  • Utilize microscopic approaches to surface characterization, and electrochemical approaches to interrogating fluid chemistry and solid-solution interfaces (e.g., LP, EIS).

The "ZRA" Technique

  • Interrogate MIC in a split-cell format
  • Zero-resistance ammetry (ZRA) measurements are collected from two working electrodes (WE) deployed in separate chambers that are connected by a semipermeable membrane
  • Mimic the conditions associated with heterogeneous coverage of metal surfaces by microbial biofilms, while adapting the physicochemical conditions to those observed in field settings
  • Monitor processes that occur when metals are exposed to different environmental conditions
  • UA researchers are currently using this technique to:
    • Determine mechanisms of MIC
    • Develop robust rate formulations for MIC
    • Sensitively monitor MIC in real time
Researcher working with microorganisms

Researcher working with microorganisms

The

The "ZRA" Technique

Contact NCERCAMP

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264 Wolf Ledges Parkway
Akron, Ohio 44325

Telephone

Office: 330-972-6978
Fax: 330-972-5141