Inhibitors for microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC)

Microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) is an important factor for the corrosion of metal materials. The MIC refers to the process in which microbial life activities and metabolites directly or indirectly corrode metals. In essence, the metabolites of microorganisms affect the corrosion rate and type by influencing the cathodic or anodic processes of metal corrosion reaction. MIC widely exists in marine, oil field, cooling water system and other environments, and has a great promoting effect on the destruction of various engineering materials. As a result, pipeline leakage and equipment failure caused by MIC are frequently reported. This not only causes huge economic losses, but also causes serious safety accidents such as combustion and explosion. To date, different methods have been used to inhibit MIC, such as sterilization treatment, cathodic protection, coating and so on. Among them, adding corrosion inhibitor is one of the most economical, effective and practical methods to inhibit microbial corrosion. Corresponding corrosion inhibitors are usually added according to the type of corrosion to inhibit the corrosion of microorganisms. The mechanism of inhibitors has been studied extensively. In this chapter, the MIC inhibitors were reviewed.