An Outline to Corrosive Bacteria

The metallic corrosion is a spontaneous process that causes damage in almost all sectors of human activity. Among the most affected structures stand out the pipes for oil transportation. The biocorrosion occurs due to the fixation of bacteria, release of metabolites and formation of biofilms that induce or accelerate the corrosion process. Among the groups of bacteria involved in the corrosion process are included: IEPS-producing bacteria, IIacid-producing bacteria, IIIsulfuroxidizing bacteria; IViron-precipitating bacteria and Vsulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB). The main methods used in industry to prevent the spread of corrosive bacteria include biocides, protective coatings (antifouling) and corrosion inhibitors. This article provides an overview of biofilm formation process and biocorrosion discussing the main groups of corrosive bacteria, as well as the current methods and alternative techniques to control these environmentally harmful processes. In addition, the review throws the idea that plant compounds may be employed to control biocorrosion.