Microbial community of desulphation membrane in oil industry

The efficiency of nanofiltration membranes used in seawater desulfation on offshore platforms depends heavily on the physical and chemical integrity of their structure and the presence of microbial biofilms that compromise their functionality. Little is known about the composition and dynamics of the microbial communities associated with these membranes, knowledge of which is of paramount importance for the treatment and resolution of associated problems. In view of this, the present study aimed to evaluate and characterize the microbiota adhered to nanofiltration membranes inserted in sulfate removal units on oil exploration platforms, with a focus on understanding their diversity, structure, and possible implications for system performance.The study performed a comparative analysis of two different membranes. From more than 2,000 sequence variants identified, a highly diverse and functionally active microbial community was observed, with uneven distribution among the samples. Less than 4% of the ASVs were shared between the membranes, indicating the existence of specific communities shaped by distinct operational and environmental conditions. In addition to identifying phyla common to the marine environment and industrial systems, the study identified the presence of microorganisms potentially associated with biofilm formation and corrosion.The relevance of this study lies in the fact that it is the first to characterize the microbiota of desulfation membranes in operation in the oil sector, offering a new perspective on the microbiological impacts of this type of technology. The identification of a common microbial nucleus suggests the existence of an indigenous microbiota associated with the membranes, with a potential role in the development of biofouling. Thus, the knowledge generated can support specific strategies for monitoring and controlling biofilms, contributing to improving the efficiency, durability and sustainability of water injection operations in marine environments in the oil industry.