RESUMO
AIMS: The detection of trace concentrations of biogenic sulfides can be carried out through radiorespirometric assays. The objective of this work was to improve the methodology for detection of H2 S in trace concentrations, to correlate with sulfate-reducing bacterial activity. METHODS AND RESULTS: Serial dilutions of synthetic sea water with a pure culture of Desulfovibrio alaskensis, a mixed anaerobic microbial culture and a natural saline sample from a petroleum offshore platform indicated that dilutions were followed, accordingly, by sulfate reduction. CONCLUSIONS: Tests performed indicated that increasing the time of incubation of a mixed anaerobic microbial culture contributed to an increase in the sulfate reduction rates, as well as the amount of carbon source and inoculum. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: The technique here developed proved to be a rapid test for the detection of biogenic sulfides, particularly those associated with corrosion products, being an useful tool for monitoring and controlling oil/water storage tanks, petroleum continental platforms and several types of reservoirs.