Testing for microbiological damage of underground organic coatings

In order to obtain information on the microbiological factors in underground metal corrosion, a research project was started in 1948 to evaluate the role of soil micro-organisms in metal corrosion and coating deterioration. Samples of soil were obtained from the vicinity of buried steel pipes undergoing corrosion at eleven sites in New York City. These were analyzed in the laboratory for bacterial content and chemical properties. Three groups of sulphur bacteria, one iron and a nitrate reducing group were always represented in the collections. These bacteria influence the corrosion of metal underground. Considerable information was obtained on soil properties and environment conditions which would affect the growth of these bacteria.