The existence of these bacteria dates back almost 3.5 billion years and is one of the oldest forms of micro-organisms on earth.
Fremont, CA: We have acquired extensive knowledge and experience lining and repairing storage tanks of varying sizes and shapes over the years. Whether above ground or underground, some are in good condition, others in bad situation, and many in terrible condition. One thing is clear from our experience in this industry: corrosion is the most significant enemy of storage tanks, which can significantly shorten their lifespan.
Corrosion
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As a natural phenomenon, corrosion is governed by the laws of chemistry, metallurgy, and electricity. By definition, corrosion is the gradual destruction of materials caused by chemical reactions to their environment. The corrosion process degrades the valuable properties of a material. This includes the material's strength, appearance, and gas and liquid permeability.
In order to produce steel, both for storage tanks and for other purposes, heat and fire are added. As a result, the finished steel is imbalanced in terms of energy. This is something that nature wishes to undo and return to its natural state.
Types of corrosion
Microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) occurs when microbes in the local environment accelerate decline through their metabolic activity. Through atmospheric tank venting systems, microbes, dust particles, and moisture are introduced into storage tanks. For populations to thrive and multiply, they require both water and nutrients. It is possible for these populations to feed on carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur, and phosphorus, as well as lesser elements such as calcium, sodium, iron, magnesium, and copper.
Sulphate-reducing bacteria
In water, a variety of bacteria can trigger microbiologically influenced corrosion. There are two types of bacteria: aerobic (requiring oxygen) and anaerobic (not requiring oxygen). One type of anaerobic bacteria that can cause problems in fuel storage tanks is sulfate-reducing bacteria. The organisms obtain energy by oxidizing organic compounds rather than by breathing oxygen. The existence of these bacteria dates back almost 3.5 billion years and is one of the oldest forms of micro-organisms on earth.
Lining stops corrosion
It is possible to effectively manage and control interior corrosion by applying protective coatings. They serve as a barrier between the stored product and the steel tank, preventing corrosion from occurring. By interrupting the flow of electrons, the coating prevents corrosion from taking place. As a result of the internal coating, microbes are not able to directly attack the steel, preventing corrosion caused by microbiological influences.
Preparation and good coating application
To prevent corrosion, the coating must be applied correctly to prevent discontinuities (breaks or gaps) in the layer. Often, these discontinuities are caused by poor or improper surface preparation or poor coating application. To minimize discontinuities and to prolong the coating's life, it is essential to properly prepare the steel surface and to apply the coating system.
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