Title: Benchtop Biogenic Testing of Microbially Induced Corrosion of Concrete

Author(s): O. Burkan Isgor

Publication: Web Session

Volume:

Issue:

Appears on pages(s):

Keywords:

DOI:

Date: 4/1/2021

Abstract:
This presentation focuses on biogenic benchtop tests for assessing microbially induced corrosion of concrete (MICC) and effectiveness of antimicrobial products used to mitigate MICC. First, a practical solution test is presented to assess the effectiveness of antimicrobial products. The premise of the test is that the performance of antimicrobial products is influenced by the pH of the environment, the bacterial population, and the level of bacterial activity. Another biogenic benchtop test will be presented to assess the performance of cementitious materials and antimicrobial additives during the bacterial attachment (Stage 2) or acidification (Stage 3) phases of MICC. The test controls the pH associated with Stage 2 and Stage 3 of MICC by using sulfur-oxidizing bacteria. Paste deterioration and effectiveness of admixed and/or topically applied antimicrobial additives are evaluated by investigating the reduction in flexural strength, calcium leaching, and microstructural changes. The efforts toward standardization of these tests will also be discussed.