What is Microbial Induced Corrosion (MIC)?
Microbial Induced Corrosion (MIC) represents a significant challenge in the longevity and integrity of concrete structures, especially those exposed to aggressive environments where bacteria can thrive. MIC occurs when specific bacteria, such as sulfate-reducing bacteria, come into contact with concrete and produce acids as a byproduct of their metabolism. These acids can aggressively corrode concrete and steel reinforcement, leading to structural weakness, reduced lifespan, and ultimately, failure.
Concrete Protective Liner (CPL) offers an effective solution to prevent MIC in concrete structures. By creating a physical barrier between the concrete surface and the external environment, CPL shields the concrete from direct exposure to harmful bacteria and their acidic byproducts. This barrier prevents the bacteria from adhering to and penetrating the concrete surface, significantly reducing the risk of MIC.
CPL, made from materials resistant to chemicals and biological degradation, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) ensures durability and longevity. Its application is versatile, suitable for new structures and retrofitting existing ones, making it a proactive and reactive solution against MIC.
MIC poses a severe threat to the durability of concrete structures, leading to costly repairs and maintenance. The use of Concrete Protective Liner is a practical and effective strategy to prevent MIC, protecting the structural integrity and extending the lifespan of concrete infrastructure against microbial attacks.
What Can Happen if Microbial Induced Corrosion is in a System?
Microbial-induced corrosion primarily affects the integrity and durability of concrete and metal structures, leading to deterioration and structural weaknesses. While MIC itself is not directly responsible for causing sinkholes or subsidence, the consequences of MIC could indirectly contribute to such events, especially in specific environments.
Here's how the process can unfold:
Infrastructure Deterioration: MIC can significantly degrade underground pipes, sewer lines, and other subterranean infrastructure made of concrete or metal. Over time, this degradation can lead to leaks or complete failures.
Soil Erosion: When MIC-compromised structures like sewers or pipelines fail, they can cause water or waste to leak into the surrounding soil. This can lead to erosion or washing away of the soil, which supports other structures or layers above it.
Creation of Voids: The continuous erosion or removal of soil can create voids beneath the surface. If these voids grow large enough and the structural integrity of the surface layer is compromised, it can suddenly collapse, creating a sinkhole.
Subsidence: Similarly, the loss of support due to the erosion or removal of underground soil can lead to subsidence, which is the gradual sinking or settling of the ground's surface.
While MIC is not a direct cause of sinkholes or subsidence, its impact on underground infrastructure can set the stage for these events, especially in areas prone to such geological phenomena. Regular inspection and maintenance of underground structures, along with mitigation strategies against MIC like concrete protective liner, are crucial in preventing the indirect contributions to sinkholes and subsidence.
