Microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) encompasses all types of material degradation caused or influenced by microorganisms. A wide range of materials can be affected by MIC, including metals, plastics, concrete, and others.

Preventing and controlling MIC pose serious challenges, requiring knowledge in various technical and scientific disciplines – from materials science, processes and equipment, microbiology, biochemistry, corrosion engineering, and industrial management, to appropriate activities for identifying root causes and developing measures to mitigate negative consequences.

A major challenge hindering progress in the research and control of MIC is the lack of free and synergistic collaboration/communication among scientists from different fields, as well as insufficient interaction between academia and industry.