Shot-gun Metagenomic Analysis of Corrosion Caused by Microorganisms from Drinking Water Distribution Systems

Sufficient quantity and quality of drinking water is one of the most importantrequirements for human life. The need for drinking water poses an increasinglysignificant challenge due to growing population, industrial development, and climate change. It is critically important to protect drinking water sources, ensure efficient water management, and provide clean drinking water to everyone. During the establishment of drinking water distribution systems (DWDS), metal pipes have often been used and proved to be durable for decades. However, if these pipes do not receive proper maintenance or timely replacement, they become obsolete and damaged. One of the most common problems with these pipes is corrosion, which can lead to bursting pipes that can result in deterioration of the drinking water quality. Microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC), which occurs due to the presence and/or activity of microorganisms, is one of the causes of corrosion occurring in DWDS, however, there is little data in the literature about MIC in DWDS. In the present study, we aimed to investigate MIC that may occur in DWDS by performing a laboratory experiment using water and corrosion products from a drinking water distribution system in the presence or absence of minimal media and by using appropriate sterile controls. C1010 mild carbon steel coupons were incubated for 35 days in the dark. To evaluate the corrosion phenomena observed, we applied the Multiple Lines of Evidence (MLOE) approach. During the design of these experiments, we adhered to the protocol developed by the Euro-MIC COSTAction (CA20130) Working Group 5. In this study, we present the data obtained from this pilot study with emphasis on the microbial community composition obtained by shot-gun metagenomic sequencing on Illumina platform. Potential corrosion mechanisms will also be presented and discussed in details.AcknowledgmentsThis publication/paper is based upon work from COST Action “CA20130 Euro-MIC” (https://www.euro-mic.org), supported by COST (European Cooperation in Science and Technology). COST (European Cooperation in Science and Technology) is a funding agency for research and innovation networks. Our Actions help connect research initiatives across Europe and enable scientists to grow their ideas by sharing them with their peers. This boosts their research, career, and innovation.