European microbiologically influenced corrosion network (EURO-MIC): new paths for science, sustainability and standards

ABSTRACT: Microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) is the corrosion of material caused or enhanced by microorganisms. It occurs directly or indirectly through their metabolic activities and can be accelerated 10 to 100 times, depending on the material. A wide range of materials can be affected by MIC, including metal, plastic, and concrete, impacting the entire infrastructure of society, including water and wastewater management systems, marine industrial facilities, and (on)offshore systems. One challenge of MIC common to all these sectors is the colonization of surfaces, where the presence of water is one of the basic requirements for biofilm to form. This phenomenon is a major global challenge caused by the growing world population and related industrial activities combined with climate change, and increasingly becoming a problem for our society [1] and [2]. The global cost of MIC is unambiguous and should almost certainly be underestimated. According to survey data, MIC is responsible for up to 20% of all corrosion found in aqueous systems, costing billions of dollars in rehabilitation costs alone [1]. In Europe, several research groups/ other industrial stakeholders are already dealing with MIC. Unfortunately, the discussions are fragmented, and the exchange of information is limited. A true transdisciplinary approach is hardly ever experienced, although this would be logical for this material/biology related challenge. Therefore, Europe needs to combine the efforts of experts in different fields and develop prevention measures according to the european rules, in close cooperation with industry, plant operators and owners of critical infrastructure to effectively contribute to this MIC challenge. In this context, our european MIC-network aims to provide the necessary interaction and communication, knowledge sharing, training of personnel and of researchers of different disciplines. Only in this Europe can get a leading role in this process, bringing ideas together on an equal level with other nations, and thereby considering the important values and attitudes for Europe (e.g., environmental protection) and resulting in a greater protection for people, property, and the environment. The working group structure of this Euro-MIC Cost Action, as well as specific objectives, ongoing activities, and expected impacts, will be presented.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio