Rhamnolipid as an Effective SRB Biocide – Determining a Solution to Replicate Anticipated Conditions
College
College of Engineering and Polymer Science
Date of Last Revision
2025-04-29 12:39:42
Major
Chemical Engineering
Honors Course
CHEE497-001-2024_Fall
Number of Credits
3
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science
Date of Expected Graduation
Spring 2025
Abstract
This project aimed to develop a laboratory-scale solution that replicates produced water conditions (CO2 + brine) found in crude pipelines, with the added requirement of promoting the growth of sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB). A previously successful study was used as a reference, which employed a hybrid salt solution containing essential nutrients and environmental factors. The proposed solution included 10 g sodium chloride, 1 g sodium pyruvate, 0.2 g ammonium chloride, and 0.8 g sodium sulfate per liter of deionized water. Electrochemical testing (Linear Polarization Resistance and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy) was performed on solutions with and without rhamnolipid. Results from the non-rhamnolipid solution were comparable to published data, suggesting the added nutrient additions to the produced water simulant had minimal impact on corrosion behavior. If SRB growth is confirmed, this solution could serve as a practical model for studying SRB-induced corrosion in crude pipeline environments.
Research Sponsor
Dr. Robert Lillard
First Reader
Dr. Bi-min Newby
Second Reader
Dr. Lu-Kwang Ju
Honors Faculty Advisor
Dr. Nic Leipzig
Proprietary and/or Confidential Information
No
Recommended Citation
Zimmerer, Elizabeth, "Rhamnolipid as an Effective SRB Biocide – Determining a Solution to Replicate Anticipated Conditions" (2025). Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects. 1994.
https://ideaexchange.uakron.edu/honors_research_projects/1994