Radiorespirometric assays for the detection of biogenic sulfides from sulfate-reducing bacteria

Abstract

Aims: The detection of trace concentrations of biogenic sulfides can be carried out through radiorespirometric assays. The objective of this work was to improve the methodology for detection of H 2 S in trace concentrations, to correlate with sulfate-reducing bacterial activity. Methods and Results: Serial dilutions of synthetic sea water with a pure culture of Desulfovibrio alaskensis, a mixed anaerobic microbial culture and a natural saline sample from a petroleum offshore platform indicated that dilutions were followed, accordingly, by sulfate reduction. Conclusions: Tests performed indicated that increasing the time of incubation of a mixed anaerobic microbial culture contributed to an increase in the sulfate reduction rates, as well as the amount of carbon source and inoculum. Significance and Impact of the Study: The technique here developed proved to be a rapid test for the detection of biogenic sulfides, particularly those associated with corrosion products, being an useful tool for monitoring and controlling oil/water storage tanks, petroleum continental platforms and several types of reservoirs.

Microbial Dynamics and Control in Shale Gas Production

“…Commonly used methods of detecting microorganisms include culture-based techniques, biochemical assays, cell activity assays, , genetic techniques, and microscopy. ,, The current practice is to utilize culture-based techniques, such as most probable number (MPN) counts. A major disadvantage of these culture-based techniques is that most microbes (>95%) are considered unculturable .…”

“…Detection and Identification. Commonly used methods of detecting microorganisms include culture-based techniques, biochemical assays, 68 cell activity assays, 69,70 genetic techniques, and microscopy. 58,71,72 The current practice is to utilize culturebased techniques, such as most probable number (MPN) counts.…”