Technology venture company Q-Stat will fund bench-scale trials of Biosignal’s compounds against organisms known to cause corrosion problems and in conditions that mimic oil and gas pipelines.

In July 2005 the two companies reported the CSIRO had conducted successful initial proof-of-concept testing that demonstrated the prevention of bacterial-induced metal corrosion.

This new test work will use Biosignal’s compounds alone and in combination with biocides currently used in the industry. If this work is successful, a field study will be conducted at an operating oil facility. Biosignal will own any intellectual property arising from the work.

Q-State director Dr Jonathan Ufal said microbiologically-induced (bacterial) corrosion (MIC) of steel infrastructure was estimated to cost the Australian oil and gas industry about $A675 million per annum in direct and deferred costs, based on corresponding US industry figures.

“MIC occurs throughout oil and gas fields, at wellheads, in the gathering system, on oilrigs, on the internal and external surfaces of pipelines, storage tanks and refining facilities [and] is often responsible for leaks and blowouts,” he said.

“We believe the anti-biofilm effects of Biosignal’s compounds have great potential in diminishing this problem.”

Based on Australian industry figures, biocide costs are at least A40c per barrel of oil, and the downtime caused by bacterial corrosion is an even greater cost to the industry, according to Biosignal managing director Michael Oredsson.

“The collaborative partners are in discussions with major oil and gas entities to provide support with funding and access to facilities for field trials,” he said.

Q-Stat will devote management resources to implement the project and seek commitments from potential users of the technology. The bench-scale trials are expected to be completed by mid-year.