Researchers at Reichman University have developed a biological method to protect marine infrastructure from corrosion caused by prolonged exposure to seawater [1].

This development provides a sustainable alternative to traditional chemical corrosion inhibitors, which are often costly and can pollute the marine environment [2]. By utilizing bacteria to create a mineral shield, the team aims to reduce the ecological footprint of maintaining ships, piers, and underwater pipelines.

The study, published in Cell Reports Physical Science, outlines how this biological approach serves as a safeguard for metals against the damaging effects of salt water [2]. Current industry standards rely on chemical agents that provide protection but introduce toxins into the ocean [2].

"Researchers at Reichman University have developed a biological method for protecting marine infrastructure from corrosion caused by prolonged exposure to seawater," a researcher said [3].

The process involves using specific bacteria to build a mineralized layer on the surface of the metal. This shield acts as a physical barrier, preventing the corrosive elements of seawater from reaching the underlying material [1].

According to the research team, the biological method offers a sustainable solution for safeguarding marine assets from the damaging effects of seawater corrosion [3]. This shift toward bio-based protection could potentially lower long-term maintenance costs for global shipping and energy sectors [2].

"The study, published in Cell Reports Physical Science, presents an environmentally friendly alternative to the chemical corrosion inhibitors currently used to protect metals—materials that can be both polluting and costly," a researcher said [2].

“This biological method offers a sustainable solution for safeguarding marine assets from the damaging effects of seawater corrosion.”

The shift from chemical to biological corrosion inhibitors represents a move toward 'green chemistry' in maritime engineering. If scalable, this bacterial mineral shield could significantly reduce the amount of heavy metals and toxic chemicals leaching into the ocean from industrial infrastructure, while potentially extending the lifespan of critical underwater assets.