Protocols for Measuring Activity of Sulphate-Reducing Bacteria in Water Injection Systems by Radiorespirometric Assay

Growth and activity of sulphate-reducing bacteria (SRB) is a problem for offshore oil fields injecting sea water for pressure support. Oxygen is traditionally removed before injection to reduce corrosion. The anoxic conditions and high sulphate content of sea water promotes growth and activity of SRB in the water injection system and in the reservoir. The major concern top side in the water injection system is microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) caused by SRB activity. Combined with the assessment of corrosion rates, monitoring of SRB activity is applied to evaluate treatment methods and optimize treatment regimens. The aim is to reduce corrosion and maintenance cost and ensure a healthy work environment for platform personnel. In the current chapter we will describe a radiorespirometric method for assessment of H2S production rate in biofilm from water injection systems.
Source: Springer protocols feed by Microbiology - Category: Microbiology Source Type: news