To build a comprehensive microbial monitoring program for MIC risk assessment, multiple qPCR assays can be used.
Universal Assays (Broad Microbial Detection)
These assays provide a snapshot of total microbial populations present in a system and are useful for establishing a baseline or monitoring general microbial activity:
- Total Prokaryote: Measures all prokaryotic microbes present in a sample.
- Total Bacteria: Measures all bacterial microbes present in a sample.
- Total Archaea: Measures all archaeal microbes present in a sample.
Monitoring Assays (For Mitigation and General MIC Assessment)
These assays focus on specific groups of microbes known to contribute to MIC and are useful for tracking the effectiveness of treatment strategies:
- Sulfate-Reducing Bacteria (SRB): Identifies microbes for producing hydrogen sulfide, a corrosive byproduct that accelerates metal degradation.
- Methanogens: Detects microbes that produce methane and can contribute to corrosion by oxidizing elemental iron, especially in anaerobic environments.
- Iron-Reducing Bacteria (IRB): Measures microbes that reduce Fe³⁺ to Fe²⁺, a process that weakens protective metal surfaces promoting localized corrosion.
- Sulfur-Oxidizing Bacteria (SOB): Identifies microbes that generate sulfuric acid, increasing corrosion risk.
MIC Biomarker Assays (For Specific MIC Risk Assessment)
These advanced qPCR assays detect specific genetic markers linked to aggressive corrosion mechanisms:
- micC: Detects corrosive SRB strains directly involved in MIC-related damage.
- micH: Identifies methanogens directly involved in MIC-related damage.
By integrating multiple qPCR assays into a comprehensive microbial monitoring strategy, industries can gain a more detailed and proactive approach to corrosion prevention.
Why Use Multiple Assays?
No single assay can give a complete picture of MIC. By combining universal, group specific, and biomarker-targeted qPCR assays alongside tools like ATP testing for total microbial activity and Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) for deeper microbial profiling, gives operators a proactive and comprehensive edge in MIC monitoring, risk assessment, and long-term corrosion prevention. Industry guidance for MIC testing widely recommends use of multiple lines of evidence (MLOE) approach to MIC risk assessment leveraging multiple technologies and data sets.
Need Help or Want to Learn More?
Our team of experts is here to assist you with your microbiological monitoring needs. Whether you have questions, need technical support, or want to learn more about GeneCount qPCR testing, contact LuminUltra® Support to get started.