Influence of a Bacteriophage Cocktail as a Biocontrol Strategy on Sulfate-Reducing Bacteria in a Pilot-Scale System

Sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) play crucial roles in microbiologically induced corrosion (MIC), especially in anaerobic environments where the production of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and biofilm formation accelerate metal degradation. Conventional treatments, such as THPS-based biocides, while effective, face limitations relating to the development of resistance and poor biofilm penetration. In this study, we evaluated the use of a non-specific bacteriophage cocktail as a biological control strategy against a mixed SRB culture (AP) biofilm and related corrosion, utilizing a pilot-scale system with AISI 1020 carbon steel coupons. Over 38 days, we monitored H2S production, optical density, and ATP concentrations, along with the surface characterization of steel coupons through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and profilometry. Metagenomic sequencing revealed changes in microbial community composition, including reductions in sulfate consumers and shifts in dominant taxa. SEM and profilometric analyses showed disrupted and less aggressive biofilms on treated surfaces, often exhibiting filamentous structures. Diversity indices indicated the modulation of microbial richness and composition over time. These findings demonstrate the potential of bacteriophage cocktails to reshape complex microbial communities and reduce MIC, providing a sustainable alternative to chemical biocides in large-scale industrial settings.