Bacteria build a mineral shield that could help marine infrastructure resist rust

Researchers at Reichman University have unveiled a groundbreaking biological method for protecting marine infrastructure from corrosion, using a consortium of bacteria that form a mineral shield on metal surfaces. Published in Cell Reports Physical Science, the study highlights a sustainable alternative to traditional chemical corrosion inhibitors, which are often environmentally damaging and expensive. The breakthrough was led by Avichay Nahami and Dr. Prem Anand Murugan of the Scojen Institute for Synthetic Biology at Reichman University’s Dina Recanati School of Medicine. Their team cultivated a mix of bacterial species, including Bacillus subtilis and other naturally occurring bacteria found in seawater. These microbes were observed working together to generate a dense, durable protective layer on metals such as steel and iron, commonly used in marine and electrochemical infrastructure. In laboratory experiments, the researchers found that this microbial coating significantly reduced the rate of corrosion caused by saltwater exposure. Each bacterial species played a specific role in the process: some prepared the environment for the formation of the protective layer, while others produced enzymes essential for creating aragonite crystals, minerals that act as a physical barrier against corrosive elements in seawater. The study emphasized the importance of using a diverse bacterial consortium rather than relying on a single species. This approach yielded stronger and more stable protection, particularly under challenging marine conditions. The findings suggest that this biological strategy could offer a long-term solution for safeguarding critical marine structures, such as ports, offshore platforms, and vessels, while minimizing the need for harmful chemical treatments. Dr. Ilana Kolodkin-Gal, who oversaw the research and leads the Microbiome and Synthetic Microbiology Laboratory at the Scojen Institute, noted the potential of integrating biological systems into engineering practices. She stated, “Harnessing biological systems to address engineering challenges represents one of the most promising applications of synthetic biology. This study exemplifies how interdisciplinary collaboration can yield innovations that reduce dependence on chemical compounds and provide novel ways to protect infrastructure in extreme environments.” The discovery builds upon ongoing efforts in synthetic biology and microbiome research aimed at developing eco-friendly technologies. By leveraging the natural capabilities of microorganisms, scientists hope to create sustainable solutions for global challenges, including the degradation of underwater infrastructure due to corrosion. The research team plans to further refine their methods and explore real-world applications, potentially leading to commercial deployment of the technology. They anticipate that widespread adoption could result in substantial cost savings and extended lifespans for marine infrastructure, contributing to more resilient coastal and maritime ecosystems. As the field continues to evolve, the integration of biological processes into industrial applications marks a pivotal shift toward sustainability in engineering and materials science. The study underscores the growing importance of interdisciplinary research in addressing complex environmental and technological issues.