Which process is responsible for the acceleration of corrosion in metal pipes?

The presence of sulfate-reducing bacteria plays a significant role in the acceleration of corrosion in metal pipes. These bacteria can thrive in anaerobic conditions, where oxygen is scarce, and are known to contribute to the biocorrosion process. They reduce sulfate ions in water to sulfide, leading to the production of aggressive corrosive agents and localized corrosion environments, particularly in environments such as pipelines carrying hydrocarbons or sewage.

In addition to forming corrosive compounds, sulfate-reducing bacteria can also create pitting in metals, which is a type of localized corrosion that results in significant damage over time. This form of bacterial corrosion can be particularly problematic in environments like pipelines, where moisture and organic compounds are present and ideal for microbial growth. By facilitating these corrosive processes, sulfate-reducing bacteria can greatly decrease the lifespan of metal pipes and increase maintenance and replacement costs.