Redox potential

Definition

A measure of the tendency of the local environment to gain or lose electrons, which collapses inside an active biofilm.

As oxygen is consumed and metabolic activity proceeds, redox potential collapses at the metal interface. Falling redox conditions favor anaerobic metabolism such as sulfate reduction and make re-passivation of the metal unlikely. Iron-related bacteria can further alter local redox conditions to support corrosion.

Related concepts

Passivation · Sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) · Iron-related bacteria (IRB)

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Part of The Blueprint of Water · ⚡ electrochemistry