Biocorrosion and biofouling processes are mediated by microorganisms adhered to metal surfaces or embedded in a gelatinous matrix called a biofilm. Microbial adhesion processes lead to an important modification of the metal/solution interface, generally increasing its aggressiveness to the substratum. The growth of microorganisms able to induce biocorrosion is controlled by environmental conditions. However, the chemical agents generally used to prevent or protect metallic structures from biocorrosion are highly toxic and after use can have a negative impact on the environment.

Four different approaches, developed in our laboratories, to prevent and control biocorrosion while minimizing environmental impact, are presented in this paper: a) the stabilization of protective films of corrosion products on the metal surface; b) the use of natural biocides on planktonic and sessile bacteria; c) the use of film forming corrosion inhibitors to prevent biofouling and corrosion; d) the use of immunoglobulins to avoid bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation.

Subject
Steel surfaces, Metal surfaces, Protective films, Biofilms, Corrosion products, Extracts, Film formation, Bacteria, Corrosion inhibitors, Biocides, Stainless steel, Microorganisms, Adhesion
Keywords:
biocide, biocorrosion, biofilms, protective films, environment, immunoglobulins, natural products
© 2004 Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP). All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the prior written permission of AMPP. Positions and opinions advanced in this work are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of AMPP. Responsibility for the content of the work lies solely with the author(s).
2004
Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP)
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