Abstract
A gas storage field which had experienced microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) of downhole components and surface piping was treated with biocides and corrosion inhibitors to control the MIC. Wells treated with glutaraldehyde showed a rapid decline in bacteria levels whether the biocide was atomized into the gas supply tubing or injected downhole. The quaternary amine biocide tested had little effect on bacteria levels. Laboratory tests of these biocides using fluids from the storage field confirmed the effectiveness of the glutaraldehyde and ineffectiveness (at manufacturer’s suggested dosages) of the quaternary amine. Laboratory and field tests of compatibility between biocides and corrosion and scale inhibitors demonstrated that some corrosion inhibitors affect the ability of glutaraldehyde to control surface-associated microorganisms but not bulk liquid phase microorganisms. Other corrosion inhibitors had no effect on the efficacy of glutaraldehyde. Since the quaternary amine did not control the microorganisms without added corrosion inhibitors, compatibilities could not be determined.
