Protecting Wastewater Infrastructure: A New Approach to Combat Concrete Corrosion

A silent but devastating threat is compromising the durability of wastewater infrastructure: microbially induced concrete corrosion (MICC). This complex process, driven by sulfur-oxidizing bacteria, weakens concrete over time, leading to costly repairs and service disruptions. However, new research offers fresh insights into potential mitigation strategies.

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A study conducted by Oluwafisayomi Folorunso evaluated the effectiveness of various surface treatments in protecting concrete from MICC, acid attack, and sulfate exposure. Using standardised ASTM test methods, the research compared the performance of biocidal admixtures, acid-resistant coatings (ARC), and sodium nitrite (NaNO₂) treatments in extending the lifespan of wastewater infrastructure.

The findings revealed that while no single treatment was entirely effective, biocidal admixtures showed the most promise in slowing corrosion rates, reducing mass loss, and maintaining higher surface pH levels. Sodium nitrite performed well in preserving flexural strength, while acid-resistant coatings provided moderate protection against sulfate attack. Notably, MICC was found to progress nearly twice as fast under biogenic conditions compared to chemical corrosion alone.

As municipalities face increasing challenges in maintaining aging wastewater systems, this research underscores the need for multi-layered protection strategies. A combination of antimicrobial treatments and acid-resistant coatings could provide a more robust defense against MICC, ultimately reducing long-term infrastructure costs.

Future research should focus on optimizing treatment combinations and exploring new materials with enhanced resistance. As concrete degradation continues to threaten wastewater systems worldwide, innovative solutions like these are vital for ensuring sustainable and resilient infrastructure.