Metabolic barrier assay and genome model for microbial corrosion evaluation

Overview

This solution introduces a metabolic barrier assay coupled with a genome-scale metabolic model to evaluate and predict microbial corrosion processes. The integration of these tools aims to link metabolite composition with the physical degradation of surfaces, providing insights into the mechanisms of microbially-influenced corrosion. This approach is particularly important for industries dealing with protective coatings, as it enhances the understanding of how biofilms and microbial metabolites contribute to corrosion processes.

Technical specifications

Key features:

• Utilizes genome-scale metabolic models for organisms implicated in corrosion, such as S. oneidensis, D. desulfuricans, and G. sulfurreducens.
• Model inputs include microbial biocatalysts and substrates like Fe2+ and organic carbon, predicting growth and substrate decomposition rates.
• Incorporates an open-source dynamic flux balance software to predict microbial growth and metabolite production.
• Experimental validation through incubation of coated material samples in bacterial cultures, assessing surface topology, composition, and biofilm thickness.
• Measurement of key corrosion metabolites such as nitrate, sulfate, and iron using colorimetric kits.

Technology readiness level

Current development is at Technology Readiness Level 2, with plans for future validation involving real-world materials and environmental conditions to refine and enhance model accuracy.