By: Jeff Rogers, MPH
In the oil and gas world, biofilm isn’t just a biological problem — it’s an operational one. It leads to microbially induced corrosion, increases H₂S levels, slows flow rates, and shortens the life of expensive infrastructure. Crews fight it with biocides and mechanical cleaning, but the results are often temporary. The biofilm adapts, protects itself, and grows back.
That’s why IWC Innovations began exploring HydroTreat™ as a down hole treatment solution. The goal was simple: see whether advanced oxidation could break apart the protective biofilm layers that conventional treatments struggle to penetrate. If it worked, it could open the door to longer-lasting corrosion control and fewer production interruptions.
Early findings have been promising. Wells treated with AOP chemistry show reductions in biofilm activity and the conditions that drive corrosion. For operators, that means less downtime, fewer chemical applications, and a chance to extend the life of assets that cost millions to maintain. The work is ongoing, but the trajectory is clear — a better way to control microbial problems may finally be within reach.
