Online microbial monitoring services 

Scope

ICR technicians were required to ascertain the level of microbial contamination and activity within an offshore FPSO, North Sea. Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion: Microbiological fouling in oil and gas production systems can result in significant financial loss and plant down-time if not monitored and remediated effectively. Proliferation of sulphate-reducing bacteria (SRB) can cause Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion (MIC) in pipelines and production vessels, reservoir souring and problems with injectivity and Health and Safety issues as hydrogen sulphide is produced. 

Solution

ICR technicians were mobilised to the FPSO to conduct a combined corrosion monitoring scope using various microbial techniques to provide a fully comprehensive evaluation. Delivering analysis and information on levels of sessile (attached) from corrosion coupons and planktonic (free floating) bacterial contamination present within oilfield systems and vessels using culture-based methods and DNA sequencing techniques. Thereafter, reporting of data with recommendations regarding microbial control measures (i.e. biociding strategy and monitoring).

Results & Benefits

• Samples were successfully obtained and were backloaded to laboratory facilities for incubation and reading. 
• Microbiological bacteria were accurately detected, identified and quantified using culture-based and molecular microbiology methods; quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and 16S metagenomic analysis/Next-generation sequencing (NGS). 
• A final report was delivered to the client with recommendations and ongoing support.