This research investigated how sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB)
influences the mineralogy of iron-corrosion scales. Microbiological
activity in the distribution system is well known and recognized as a
potential health-related concern. The effect of bacteria on corrosion
has also been studied, however, the extent to which SRB actually
affect corrosion and degradation of distribution system material in
real distribution systems had not been well documented.
Iron-corrosion scales were collected from a surface water
system and a groundwater system, each with relatively high
sulfate concentrations. Results showed that reduced sulfur was a
significant component of all scales studied. Elemental sulfur and
iron disulfide dominated sulfur species in all of the analyzed
scales. Other important iron minerals found were goethite and
lepidocrocite. However, magnetite, considered an important
mineral in protecting iron pipes from extensive corrosion and iron
release, was present only in the iron scales collected from the
surface water system.
The article highlights the degree to which microbiologically
induced corrosion affects pipe material degradation and corrosion
scale buildup, which in turn affects the hydraulics of the distribution
system, material replacement, and other operating parameters.
An understanding of these issues and an awareness of the
conditions that favor microbiological corrosion of iron pipe will
help water providers determine any measures needed to improve
their distribution system maintenance programs and preserve
water quality. Includes 37 references, 5 tables, 4 figures.
| Edition : | Vol. 97 - No. 10 |
| File Size : | 1
file
, 340 KB |
| Note : | This product is unavailable in Ukraine, Russia, Belarus |
| Number of Pages : | 12 |
| Published : | 10/01/2005 |
