Dosage of iron-reducing bacteria

Iron-reducing bacteria (IRB) are microorganisms capable of transforming ferric iron (Fe³⁺) into ferrous iron (Fe²⁺). This reduction process plays a key role in metal bioavailability, material corrosion, and biogeochemical cycles in soils and aquatic environments. These bacteria belong to genera such as Geobacter or Shewanella , and their presence strongly influences the microbiological and chemical balances of natural and industrial environments. The determination of iron-reducing bacteria is essential for assessing infrastructure degradation risks, optimizing environmental management, or understanding microbial interactions in different ecosystems.

Analytical methods for the determination of iron-reducing bacteria

BRF analysis can be carried out using several complementary approaches:

• Enumeration on specific culture medium : classic method for isolating and counting viable colonies of iron-reducing bacteria.
• PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) : molecular biology technique targeting the specific genetic sequences of BRFs, offering rapid and sensitive detection even at low concentrations.
• DNA sequencing (NGS – Next Generation Sequencing) : cutting-edge method for characterizing microbial diversity and identifying bacterial communities involved in iron reduction processes.

These methods, also used in other microbiological analyses, complement the classic PCR and NGS sequencing approaches used for the study of contaminants and complex microbiotas.

Industrial and environmental applications

The dosage of iron-reducing bacteria finds numerous applications in different sectors:

• Materials and packaging industry : assessment of microbial corrosion in metal structures, tanks and distribution networks.
• Environment : monitoring the bioavailability of iron in soils, water and sludge, as well as microbial interactions with other metals.
• Energy and geosciences : study of microbial processes in bioenergy and bioremediation.
• Scientific research : understanding iron reduction mechanisms and their implications in biogeochemical cycles.

This service complements other microbiological analyses such as general bacterial counts or the detection of specific microorganisms by PCR.

Matrices analyzed for iron-reducing bacteria

YesWeLab's partner laboratories perform these analyses on various matrices: agricultural or industrial soils, groundwater, process water, sludge from wastewater treatment plants, microbial extracts or biofilms formed on metal surfaces. Each type of sample requires preparation and a suitable analytical method to ensure the reliability and representativeness of the results.

Challenges of traceability and microbiological control

The presence of iron-reducing bacteria can have significant consequences: accelerated corrosion of industrial installations, deterioration of polymer and metallic materials, changes in soil and water quality, and risks to environmental and health safety. The measurement of these bacteria makes it possible to: anticipate biodeterioration phenomena, implement appropriate control strategies, secure infrastructures, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations. These objectives are similar to those encountered in other analyses of microbiological contamination and biocorrosion in materials and packaging.

YesWeLab's expertise in the analysis of iron-reducing bacteria

YesWeLab collaborates with a network of more than 200 partner laboratories in France and Europe, selected for their microbiology expertise and accreditations (ISO 17025, COFRAC, etc.). Our scientific team defines the most appropriate analytical method based on your samples and your objectives: culture, PCR, or NGS sequencing. Thanks to our digital platform, you can centralize your requests, track your samples online, and receive your results in optimized timeframes. Since 2020, numerous manufacturers, distributors, and design offices have trusted us to secure their infrastructures and control their microbial environments.

Take action

Do you want to assess the presence of iron-reducing bacteria in your soil, water, or materials? Entrust your samples to YesWeLab for reliable and accurate analysis. Request a quote online now for your iron-reducing bacteria assay.