Metallic corrosion processes reactivation sustained by iron-reducing bacteria: Implication on long-term stability of protective layers

In deep geological environments foreseen for the disposal of radioactive waste, metallic containers will undergo anaerobic corrosion. In this context, the formation of corrosion products such as magnetite may reduce the rate of corrosion processes through the formation of a protective layer. This study aims at determining the direct impact of iron-reducing bacteria (IRB) activity on the stability of corrosion protective layers. Batch experiments investigating iron corrosion processes including the formation of secondary magnetite and its subsequent alteration in the presence of IRB show the bacteria ability to use structural Fe(III) for respiration which leads to the sustainment of a high corrosion rate. With the bio-reduction of corrosion products such as magnetite, and H2 as electron donor, IRB promote the reactivation of corrosion processes in corrosive environments by altering the protective layer. This phenomenon could have a major impact on the long-term stability of metallic compounds involved in multi-barrier system for high-level radioactive waste containment.

► We investigated the influence of Iron-Reducing Bacteria (IRB) activity on magnetite stability.
► In the presence of H2 as an electron donor, IRB is able to reduce and alter oxide protective layer.
► IRB promote the resumption of high corrosion rate in corrosive environment.
► We infer that long-term stability of metallic compounds may be affected by microorganisms.