A Novel Application of Molecular Microbiological Methods (MMM) for Improved Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion (MIC) Management

Abstract Microbial testing is an integral component of programs for managing microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) in oil and gas systems. Currently available microbe detection methods are either easy to implement but provide limited actionable data, or offer comprehensive data but are complex, costly, and require samples to be shipped to centralized labs. There currently is a lack of simple microbial testing methods that provide high quality data that facilitate intelligent MIC management. To evaluate currently available microbial testing approaches, we conducted a series of tests at a natural gas storage facility comparing commonly used methods including serial dilution in culture media (Bug-Bottles), ATP testing, and Next Generation Sequencing. Our findings suggest that there is limited correlation between insights generated by different methods, highlighting the need for improved microbial detection techniques. To this end, we present a novel rapid microbial detection platform to improve current practices in monitoring and mitigating MIC. The novel application of a molecular microbiological method (MMM) through DNA-based testing is designed for on-site identification of microbes associated with MIC within 60 minutes. This new technology opens pathways for improved MIC management, including better corrosion rate predictive modeling, treatment evaluation, and the development of targeted MIC treatment plans.