General Characterization of Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion (MIC) Related Microorganisms in Crude Oil Samples

摘要

This paper discusses the development of a methodology for monitoring and assessing the risk of microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) in individual crude oil pipelines. In order to perform such a monitoring in a thorough and cost-efficient manner, laboratory kits and protocols for detection and enumeration of MIC-related microorganisms by Molecular Microbiology Methods (MMM) must be customized for the crude oil pipelines system. This research is set to (ⅰ) develop protocols for cell- and DNA extraction from crude oil samples, (ⅱ) compare the microbial community structure in samples of crude and water from crude oil pipelines, and (ⅲ) design MMM assays suitable for surveillance and troubleshooting related to MIC in crude oil pipelines. Together, these activities outline a roadmap for the implementation of MMM-based MIC surveillance in crude and water pipelines as well as other industrial installations. It is expected that the investment necessary for this implementation will be returned manifold through early-warning and a more focused and efficient mitigation of MIC.