06/02/2025
Our Managing Principal, Dr. Olugbenga Ibikunle, just wrapped up speaking at the Aquatera Water-Earth-Innovation 2025 Conference, where he discussed a huge issue affecting sewer systems: Sulfide-Induced Sewer Corrosion (also known as Biogenic Sewer Corrosion) and the resulting odor production. 🚰💨
In his presentation, "Overview of Chemical-Based Control Methodologies for Sulfide-Induced Sewer Corrosion and Odor Production," he covered several key topics:
1️⃣ What is Sewer Cancer (Biogenic Corrosion)? This hidden issue is damaging critical infrastructure, impacting everything from the structural integrity of sewage systems to asset management objectives.
2️⃣ How Does H₂S Generation Occur in Sewer Systems? The science behind how hydrogen sulfide is produced and how it leads to corrosion and odors.
3️⃣ Chemical Control Methods: A breakdown of the current chemical treatments and how they work.
4️⃣ Challenges in Achieving Success: Why these methods sometimes fall short and how to improve.
A key takeaway from his presentation: Biogenic Corrosion isn’t a simple physical problem like throwing a stone – it’s driven by organic biochemical processes and highly influenced by local conditions.
Some key points to remember: 1️⃣ Every Sewer System is Different: Sewer environments vary from city to city, country to country – and so should our approach.
2️⃣ One Size Doesn’t Fit All: What works in one city (like Calgary) might not work in another (like Winnipeg). We need tailored solutions for each system.
3️⃣ At Avodahtec: We Take a Customized Approach: We treat each case of biogenic corrosion on its own merits, carefully considering all contributing factors. The first step? Truly understanding the problem before choosing a solution.
We can make meaningful progress by recognizing that every sewer system has unique needs. Only then can we develop solutions that work!
