Research into Hâ‚‚S formation
and countermeasures
Corrosion caused by Hâ‚‚S formation—also known as biogenic sulfuric acid corrosion (BSA)—leads to the accelerated deterioration of concrete and asbestos cement (AC) pipes and manholes. It is a common issue, particularly in receiving manholes of pressure mains, and costs utility managers millions of euros annually.
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For the RIONED Foundation, we conducted a literature review on BSA in sewer systems and pressure mains. This study outlines what BSA is, how and where it occurs, how to detect the damage, and what measures can be taken. We also support and guide monitoring projects to assess the effectiveness of mitigation strategies in practice. Examples include Hâ‚‚S removing manholes, air injection into pressure sewers, and chemical dosing. In addition, we have experience modeling Hâ‚‚S formation using tools like the WATS model.
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We apply our theoretical and practical knowledge to address specific challenges faced by system managers. For instance, in a real-time control (RTC) application aimed at buffering wastewater flows to the WWTP: does temporarily storing wastewater in a gravity sewer lead to increased Hâ‚‚S corrosion compared to regular operation?