Topic: Understanding Material Performance in HTHP Steam environment

Affiliation: Scientific Officer-H, Material Processing and Corrosion Engineering Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai 400094. 
Professor, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai – 400085 
E-mail: gja@barc.gov.in

Abstract: The corrosion resistance of super alloy (SG) materials in high temperature and high pressure (HTHP) steam environments is critical for ensuring longevity and reliability of components in power generation industries. This study investigates the corrosion behaviour of various SG alloys when exposed to high-temperature steam conditions, focusing on factors such as alloy composition, microstructure, and protective oxide layer formation. Through a combination of electrochemical testing, weight loss measurements, and surface characterization techniques, we evaluate the mechanisms of corrosion and the influence of operating condition, such as temperature. The interplay between oxidation and SCC in Ni-Fe-Cr alloys is complex. While a stable oxide layer can protect against corrosion, any failure in this layer may expose the alloy to aggressive environments, promoting SCC. Additionally, the oxidation process can lead to the formation of brittle oxides that may contribute to crack initiation. Understanding this relationship is crucial for predicting the longevity of components made from Ni-Fe-Cr alloys and for developing strategies to mitigate SCC through material selection, surface treatments, and environmental control. Results indicate that certain alloying elements significantly enhance the corrosion resistance by promoting the stability of the protective oxide layer. This research contributes to the understanding of material performance in steam environments, paving the way for improved strategies in corrosion management and alloy development.

Biography : Dr. (Mrs.) Geogy J Abraham is currently working as Scientific Officer H in Material Processing and Corrosion Engineering Division of BARC, Mumbai and Professor, Homi Bhabha National Institute. She graduated as a Metallurgical Engineer and did her post-graduation in M.E. (Material Technology) from M.S. University of Baroda. She did her Ph.d. (Corrosion Science & Engg.) from IIT Bombay. She completed her Post-Doctoral Fellowship from Federal Institute of Materials Research and Testing, Berlin, Germany. Her area of specialization includes Material degradation of nuclear materials, Failure analysis, Metallurgical evaluation, aqueous corrosion, molten salt corrosion, high temperature oxidation, stress corrosion cracking and micro corrosion. 
She has contributed a chapter in the book “CORROSION OF AUSTENITIC STAINLESS STEELS”. She is recipient of Young Research Award for her M.Tech Thesis presented by IUMRS. She received Best Ph.D. Thesis award from NACE India in 2013. She delivered prestigious “Mayanna Endowment lecture” ECSI in 2013 at IISc Bangalore. She has to her credit about 120 technical publications in international conference proceedings and journals.

Topic: Corrosion resistant electrodeposited Ni and sol-gel composite coatings: An overview

Affiliation: Chief Scientist Surface Engineering Division 
CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories Bengaluru, India

Abstract: There is an increasing demand from the industries for the development of superior surface coatings with higher wear and corrosion resistance for improved performance of engineering components. Several fillers are being utilized efficiently to reduce the effect of a corrosive environment. Among the various surface engineering techniques, the electrodeposition method and sol-gel methods are highly promising due to their simplicity, cost-effectiveness, good compositional control, etc. Electrodeposited nickel (~40 m) is utilized in a large number of applications due to its strength, toughness and resistance to corrosion and wear. Nickel based composite coatings containing ceramics have been explored to combine the corrosion resistance and strength of nickel with the hardness, oxidation and wear resistance of ceramic particles and with the sole aim of achieving properties similar to hard chrome. Similarly, sol-gel based organic-inorganic hybrid coatings containing nanoparticles are explored as corrosion-resistant coatings for aircraft grade alloys. In the first part of the talk, the effect of addition of different types of nanosized ceramic oxides on the wear and corrosion-resistant properties of electrodeposited Ni-composite coatings will be discussed. In the second part of the talk, the effect of different shapes of cerium oxide nanoparticles on the corrosion-resistance of Al-Si based inorganic organic hybrid sol-gel coatings (<10 m) will be discussed in detail. 
 
Keywords: Composite; Electrodeposition; Corrosion; Sol-gel

Biography : Dr. S.T. Aruna is currently working as a Chief Scientist & Head, Director`s Technical 
Secretariat at the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research - National Aerospace 
Laboratories (CSIR-NAL), Bangalore, India. She has a Master’s Degree in Chemistry from Mysore University (1994) and she secured the first rank and won 4 gold medals. She obtained her Ph.D. from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore in the year 1998. She worked as a postdoctoral fellow at Bar-Ilan University, Israel in the area of dye-sensitized solar cells from 1998-1999. She has authored ~ 140 research papers in international peer-reviewed journals, 8 proceeding papers, 11 patents, co-authored a book, coedited 2 books and written 14 book chapters and 4 encyclopedia chapters. Her research papers have been well-cited and her publications have an h-index of 45(10369 citations). Her name features in the list of the top 2 percent of world scientists released by Stanford University since 2021. Her current research interests include the development of tape cast ceramic substrates for electronics applications, nanomaterials, plasma-sprayed thermal and environmental barrier 
coatings, oxygen sensors and reversible solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) for hydrogen 
generation. She has guided 5 Ph.D., 18 Masters and 13 Bachelor students. One of her review papers has received the best-cited paper award twice which was published in Current Opinion in Solid State and Materials Science. She is on the editorial board of Surface Engineering Journal and Journal and Manufacturing Technology Today. She is the recipient of Prof. Satish Dhawan Young Engineers Karnataka State Award-2021, MRSI Medal-2022, CSIR NAL’s outstanding award (4 times), NM Sampat award -2016, Pavan Nagpal Memorial award-2019 and ISAMPE award-2019. She is also the recipient of Prof. Sasadhar Ray Memorial award-2023 for industrial excellence. Currently, she is the President of the Electrochemical Society of India and Chairperson of Indian society for Advancement of materials and Processing Engineering (ISAMPE) Bangalore Chapter. She is on the Board of 
Studies of BMS College, Bengaluru; Academic committee of Maharaja Institute of 
technology, Mysore and Professor of Practice at VIT, Chennai. She is a life member of many professional bodies. She has transferred 3 technologies to 4 industries.

Topic: Penalty of Biofouling on Ship Hulls & Advancements in Antifouling Polymeric Coatings for Naval Applications

Affiliation: Scientific Officer F & Prof. HBNI,  
Biofouling and Biofilm Processes Section,  
Water & Steam Chemistry Division, BARC  
Kalpakkam 603102, Tamil Nadu, India 
Email: sriyuthamurthy@yahoo.in,

Abstract: Biofilm and biofouling of ship hulls and propellers, increases frictional resistance and drag resulting in increased fuel consumption. Skin frictional drag accounts for 90% of total drag. Presence of biofilm on antifouling coating surfaces increases frictional resistance by 5 to 25% & hard fouling by 85%. Naval fleets operating in deeper water with speeds above 10-30 knots use coatings having low frictional resistance and fouling release properties based on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). PDMS-FRC’s with its inception in 1995 has now entered into the 3rd generation with the use of amphiphiles, zwitterions, biocidal nanofillers for preventing biofilm accumulation. Parallely for naval vessels operating at lower speeds of 6 – 15 knots use self-polishing coatings (SPC) with silyl acrylate technology with pendant biocides and increased hydrophobicity. In addition, physical methods like underwater grooming is in practice to increase the time interval between dry dockings and for increased performance. Hybrid FRC’s incorporating biocides and other polymers like polyurethane have also been developed which have also shown promising performance. Current development has been focused on improving the foul release properties of the PDMS-FRC as well as the antifouling properties of silyl acrylate-SPC antifouling technology. Biomimicing shark scales into polymer matrices has improved antifouling performance as well as reducing frictional drag. The articles discusses the development in underwater hull coatings in vogue and future research needs for more efficient antifouling solutions.

Biography : Dr. P. Sriyutha Murthy, Scientific Officer F & Professor Homi Bhabha National Institute, (HBNI), is currently working at the Biofouling and Biofilm Processes Section, WSCD, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Kalpakkam, India. His major research and technological development interests are Biofilm and biofouling control in industrial cooling water systems, Development of antifouling coatings, Evaluation of ecotoxicity of biocides, Deep sea biofouling, Bioprospecting, Superhydrophobic Antimicrobial surfaces. He has 1 patent, 5 books, >55 papers and 17 book chapters, etc with h index of 21 and ~1869 citations. Professor. P. Sriyutha Murthy is the recipient of two DAE Group Achievement of awards for high impact research on Biocidal regimes for heat exchangers at Biofouling Test Loop Facility (2011) & Antifouling Coatings for prevention of biofouling and corrosion (2018). He has executed several research project with DST, NRB, BRNS and MoES.

Topic: Potential Theory Applied to Cathodic Protection Design

Affiliation: Engineering Operations Manager, DeLasCasas CP, LLC. 
AMPP CP IV, Cathodic Protection Specialist. 
AMPP Member.

Abstract: The potential theory behind the equations used for cathodic protection (CP) groundbed designs: resistance and potentials developed by the groundbeds with different configurations. The interaction of the groundbeds with nearby underground structures and remote earth calculation. Field testing to determine the pipeline attenuation characteristics before design and to verify simulation results during CPS commissioning. The interaction between pipelines with different attenuation characteristics and with the CP groundbeds. The presence of recirculating currents, their impact during On/Off pipe to soil readings, correct interruption processes to avoid their effects, and how to measure them in the field.

Biography : Education 
Havana University, Physics Faculty– Havana City, Cuba.  
Bachelor of Physics Science, 1985, Metal Physics. 
Certifications 
National Association of Corrosion Engineers International (NACE) – Cathodic Protection Specialist and Senior Corrosion Technologies, #6291, 2000, recertified in 2005, 2009, 2013, 2016, 2019, & 2022. 
 
Summary of Experience 
Twenty-eight (28) years (1988-1991 and 1997-2024) in corrosion-related jobs, cathodic protection, DC, and AC interference.  
 
Main papers: 
 
?New Earth Potential Equations and Applications 
?Resistance Equation For Multiple Horizontal Anode Groundbed 
?Methodological Approach to the Average Potential Method to Obtain a Generalized Equation for the Resistance of Vertical Electrodes. 
?Methodological Approach to the Average Potential Method to Obtain a Generalized Equation for the Resistance of Vertical Electrodes-II. 
?Longitudinal Electric Field Simulation, a Methodological Approach 
?Modeling of Pipe-to-Soil Potential Couple with Groundbed Potential Profile 
?Modeling of Multi-Pipeline Corridor CP Potential Profile with Common Cathodic Protection System (to be presented at NACE Conference 2017) 
 
Book: 
 
?Potential Theory Applied To Cathodic Protection Design-2022. Publisher: AMPP 
 
CP Instructor for all levels. 
 
Cathodic protection (CPS) design of offshore/onshore structures, including installation and troubleshooting of CPS, computerized CIS, DCVG, PCM, telluric current, DC interference, and simulation of existing and new CPS. Installation, inspection, and commissioning of cathodic protection systems in English and Spanish.

Topic: “Ignore Factors that affect Cathodic Protection System Performance: At your own peril”

Affiliation: Saudi Aramco 
Consulting Serviced Department 
Dhahran 
Saudi Arabia 
 
Fellow member of Institute of Corrosion, UK  
Professional Member of AMPP 
AMPP Course Instructor.

Abstract: Cathodic Protection (CP) is a well-known, well recognized and proven method to combat corrosion of various metallic materials in contact with aqueous medium. Whilst cathodic protection is a simple electrochemical concept, various factors that affect cathodic protection system performance are knowingly or unknowingly ignored and, in the process, it gets challenging to effectively manage and control corrosion.  
 
With advent of cutting-edge technologies and fast phased transformation in this digital world, it is important to stay focused not to lose the basic aspects. Staying focused and addressing things that matter is more important for every cathodic protection engineer or a practitioner. This key-note speech will present details from multiple cases and scenarios of such factors that have affected the cathodic protection system performance and the lessons learned with an aim to bring it to the listeners attention that these indeed matter and shall not be ignored. How the system gets affected as a result of design and operational changes and or modifications made elsewhere without factoring these into the Cathodic Protection aspects will be discussed. 
 
Each of the structure including process vessels, well casings, underground pipelines, marine structures, tank external bottoms & plant facilities are no exception to this challenge. Right from people, site conditions, design, installation, operation, monitoring & maintenance, materials used, neighboring structures & systems, coating type all play a vital role in this challenge and each and every aspect should be properly addressed. 
 
Keywords: Cathodic Protection, Pipelines, Marine, Process Vessels; Current; Corrosion; Monitoring; Protective Coating; Corrosion Control; Anodes; Inspection.

Biography : Over 25 years of experience in corrosion control. A fellow member of Institute of Corrosion, UK & a AMPP course instructor. 
 
AMPP (NACE) certified CP Specialist & Corrosion Specialist  
I am currently an Engineering Consultant with Saudi Aramco leading the Cathodic Protection Team at Saudi Aramco, Consulting Services Department. Chairman for the cathodic protection standards committee. I am responsible for providing expert advice and assistance to various company departments, vendors, manufacturers, and design firms on matters relating to corrosion and cathodic protection, development and maintenance of Saudi Aramco Engineering Standards, Best Practices, Design Manuals as well as conducting training programs for employees.  
 
My work responsibilities include project design reviews, support company facility and operations, develop and pursue added value new technologies. Participating in multi discipline review of condition assessment of field issues and failure analysis. Vendor review and approval, materials inspection. Witnessing field installation, testing & commissioning and conducting training programs. Well versed with various international standards such as AMPP, DNV & ISO etc.  
 
Member of AMPP course development committee for cathodic protection courses.  
As an AMPP course instructor, have trained over 500 people in the past 10 years.  
 
Joint Patents 
-Oleophobic And Hydrophilic Conductive Coating for Impressed Current Cathodic Protection Anode  
 
-System and Method for Analyzing Cathodic Protection Current Shielding of A Coating  
 
Presented Paper on Well Casing Cathodic Protection in the European Corrosion Conference Eurocorr-2024 
 
Joint Author of following papers 
 
-Corrosion Risk Assessment Model of Subsea Pipelines Network 
 
Laboratory Evaluation and Characterization of Mixed Metal Oxides Catalytic Coated Titanium Anodes for Cathodic Protection Applications

Topic: High Temperature Oxidation Resistance of Laser Direct Energy Deposited Titanium Aluminide (Ti45Al5Nb5Si)

Affiliation: Institute Chair Professor, Dept. of Metall. & Maters. Engg. 
Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur 
West Bengal

Abstract: In the present investigation, titanium aluminide with the composition of Ti45Al5Nb0.5Si has been developed by laser additive manufacturing with Nd-YAG laser with the power of 500 W, scan speed of 300 mm/min and powder feed rate of 2.2 g/min using Ar shroud in a heating chamber at constant temperature of 780°C (corresponding to the optimum parameters derived through detailed structure-property-process parameters correlation). Followed by fabrication of the coupons (of dimension: 10 mm × 10 mm ×10 mm) a detailed investigation of the microstructure has been carried out by scanning electron microscopy, the phases present in the clad zone has been determined by X-Ray diffraction analysis. Finally, the residual stresses introduced in the coupons were evaluated by stress goniometer attached with the X-Ray diffraction technique. Finally, the high temperature oxidation resistance property (700-900°C) has been evaluated in terms of cyclic oxidation behaviour. The effect of Si addition (up to 10 wt.%) on the microstructures and high temperature oxidation resistance property has also been evaluated. Si addition leads to development of silicide (Ti5Si3) dispersion in alpha matrix. The cyclic oxidation behaviour also showed significant improvement in oxidation resistance property. The detailed kinetics analysis showed an increase in activation energy from 227.99 kJ/mol to 287.49 kJ/mol due to addition of Si. The mechanism of oxidation is investigated. 
Keywords: Titanium aluminide, laser direct energy deposition, microstructure, oxidation resistance.

Biography : Professor Jyotsna Dutta Majumdar is serving in the Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering as the Institute Chair Professor. Her areas of specialization are laser materials processing, surface engineering, corrosion, and wear.  
She has supervised 17 PhD students, publishing 250 papers in peer reviewed journals, 8 book chapters and edited one book. She conducted sponsored research projects worth over Rs 10 crore, developed full-fledged laboratory for laser/plasma/spray coating. She received several prestigious fellowships and awards like POWER fellowship (2021) awarded by the Science and Engineering Research Board, Friedrich Wilhelm Bessel Research Award under Alexander von Humboldt Foundation (AvH) (2015), MRSI MEDAL awarded by the Materials Research Society of India (2013), Metallurgist of the Year, awarded by the Ministry of Steel, India (2012), BOYSCAST fellowship by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) (2004), Young Engineer Award awarded by Indian National Academy of Engineering (INAE) (2003), Young Metallurgist of the Year by the Ministry of Steel, India (2000), Young Scientists Award by the Indian Science Congress Association (2000) and elected as the Fellows of the International Advanced Association of Materials (IAAM), Sweden (2022), Indian National Academy of Engineering (2021). Institute of Engineers (2017) and West Bengal Academy of Science and Technology (2016).

Topic: Corrosion Related Challenges in Oil Refineries Processing Opportunity Crudes

Affiliation: Senior Technical Sales Advisor,  
Halliburton, USA

Abstract: Current Refining Industry faces serious challenges to the processing of Opportunity Crudes which included increased variability in crude oil quality, tightening environmental and product quality regulations and maintaining high equipment reliability and throughput. 
Such opportunity crudes are often treated with chemistries in upstream oil wells, terminals or pipelines that can cause serious adverse impacts on downstream refinery units and metallurgies.  
For example, crudes from certain locations such as Brazilian offshore production crudes contain calcium naphthenates, and due to this issue, they need to be treated with organic acids like acetic acid. These organic acids can cause corrosion related challenges in refinery units such as distillation tower overheads.  
Further, many crudes processed in India are imported and are transported in Marine Cargos. Marine transportation only allows 10 ppm of H2S in the vapor space due to safety concerns and protection of the inspection personnel. This triggers the need to treat these crude oils with H2S Scavengers. These H2S scavengers also arrive into refineries with the crude blend and can cause further corrosion related challenges.  
This work will help summarize the impact of these chemistries and the subsequent corrosion challenges experienced by Indian refineries due to such upstream contaminants and will also discuss possible mitigation solutions to enable refineries to process difficult crudes reliably.

Biography : 30 Years of Experience 
 
Marcelo earned a BSc in Chemical Engineering and MBA from UTN in Argentina 
Serving refineries and petrochemical plants around the world 
Mostly dedicated to technical roles. Technical Marketing and Product Development. 
Specializes in ethylene furnace antifoulant (PPA-321) and Coker furnace antifoulant (RPA-301). His involvement includes the development, start-up, monitoring and the global sales/support of these two unique technologies. 
Actively involved in the development of antifoulants, anti-polymerants, emulsion breakers, corrosion inhibitors, naphthenic acid corrosion inhibitors and finished fuel additives.

Topic: Special Steel Grades for Sustainable Construction

Affiliation: Sr. Vice President, ISU

Abstract: Advanced special steel grades play a pivotal role in sustainable construction, aligning with global net-zero goals. Key high-performance Thermo-Mechanically Treated (TMT) rebars—Vanadium Micro-alloyed, Fusion Bonded Epoxy Coated, and Stainless Steel rebars—offer significant environmental and economic benefits for infrastructure projects. Vanadium Micro-alloyed TMT rebars enhance structural performance while reducing steel consumption, thus lowering carbon emissions and providing improved seismic resilience. Fusion Bonded Epoxy Coated rebars offer exceptional corrosion resistance, especially in marine and chemically aggressive environments, extending infrastructure lifespan and reducing maintenance needs. Stainless Steel TMT rebars, known for durability and corrosion resistance, are ideal for coastal and industrial applications requiring long-term stability. A comparative analysis of these TMT rebars reveals their contributions to sustainable construction, focusing on CO2 emissions reduction, resource efficiency, and lifecycle cost savings. In addition to that GFRP (Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer) rebars exhibit highly corrosion resistant, as well as has net-zero carbon emissions. However, the inherent technical constraints inhibit wide-range adoption in high rise applications. These advanced steel grades support resilient, eco-efficient infrastructure that meets current structural demands while promoting a circular economy through recyclability and reduced resource consumption. Special steel grades hold significant potential to resh ape construction practices, creating enduring, sustainable structures that align with global environmental objectives.

Biography : With over three decades of expertise in the steel industry, Mr. Rout brings an exceptional background in Iron Making, Steel Making, and Rolling Technology. He holds an M. Tech in Mechanical & Material Science, an M.B.A. in Finance, and M.Sc. in Total Quality Management, showcasing his dedication to both technical excellence and managerial insight. Recognized early on with the prestigious Best Graduate Award from Rotary International Club in 1996, Mr. Rout has since built an impressive career, having contributed to renowned organizations like IISCO Burnpur, NISCO, TATA Sponge Iron Ltd, and Adhunik Metaliks. Currently, he serves as the Sr. Vice President of Integrated Steel Unit (ISU) at Electrotherm (India) Ltd, where his experience continues to shape the industry. As a Lifetime Member of the Indian Institute of Metals and with connections to the World Steel University in Belgium, he remains committed to advancing material science and engineering within the steel sector. His wealth of knowledge and practical insights make him a valuable contributor and sought-after speaker on the evolution and innovations in steel manufacturing.

Topic: Importance of earthing design in AC mitigation systems

Affiliation: Head of Global Portfolio Management Industry 
DEHN SE Germany

Abstract: A large portion of pipeline networks is affected by AC interference due to collocation with overhead HVAC powerlines, Traction, substations, transformers, underground cables etc. imposing risks of personnel safety and pipeline integrity under normal operation as well as short-circuit conditions. Such effects can be studied with computer modelling & simulation helping in identification of affected pipeline section and designing AC mitigation. 
Earthing connected to pipeline through DC Decoupler is recognized as the most practical and effective solution for AC mitigation across the globe. Knowing the affected pipeline section, designing of earthing system for effective AC mitigation is very challenging and requires consideration of various parameters like soil layer resistivity, electrode configuration, material selection, backfill requirement and installation techniques. 
This paper discusses importance of proper earthing design covering these aspects for effective AC mitigation of pipeline. Authors’ observations and experience is discussed with the help of case studies.

Biography : ?Study in Electrical Engineering at the University of Applied Science in Nuremberg, Germany. Degree: Diplom-Ingenieur (FH) 
?Electrical Engineer and Head of Product Development at Baer Industrie-Elektronik GmbH in Nuremberg 
?Product Manager at DEHN SE 
?Business Development Manager Oil&Gas at DEHN SE 
?Team Leader Global Business Development at DEHN SE 
?Head of Global Portfolio Management Industry at DEHN SE in Neumarkt/Opf.

Topic: Boron Doped Diamond Coated Graphite Felt Electrodes as Corrosion Free Positive Electrodes for Energy Storage Systems

Affiliation: Professor, Department of Chemistry, IIT Madras

Abstract: The commercialization of soluble lead redox flow battery (SLRFB) is challenging due to its limited cycle life, lower areal capacity, Pb dendrite formation, and positive electrode corrosion. The coulombic efficiency and areal capacity were improved using suitable additives. Since carbon felt is used as a substrate for PbO2 deposition in the positive electrode, during charging, the associated oxygen evolution reaction through water electrolysis corrodes the electrode. There is minimal literature on this aspect. Given this, a boron-doped diamond-coated carbon felt (BDD-CF) electrode has been explored for SLRFB to improve the electrochemical performance. BDD-CF in principle can be used as positive electrode in any electrochemical systems. This coating enhances the life of the battery systems.

Biography : Dr. Kothandaraman Ramanujam is currently working as professor in the Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Madras. Dr. Ramanujam has focused his expertise in applied electrochemistry on contributing to realize India-centric solutions for the ever-growing need of energy storage and conversion. His interest in applied chemistry is evident from the number of technologies he has developed and shared with industries. He has developed kilowatt scale vanadium flow battery technology for ONGC. Along with industry partner HEB, the 10kW stack was demonstrated in the Indi Energy Week at Goa last February. He licensed a modified Zn-Br2 battery to Archean Chemicals. His applied research fetched him two awards: Amara Raja Award 2021 from Electrochemical Society of India and the India Energy Storage Alliance’s (IESA) Researcher of the Year-2024 award. Besides, he has received awards from well-known academic societies in India for his fundamental work: CRSI Bronze Medal 2023 from the Chemical Research Society of India and SMC-BARC Bronze Medal 2023 from the Society of Materials Chemistry-Bhabha Atomic Research Centre. He has performed numerous outreach activities on popularizing electrochemistry through the ECS-IITM Student Chapter (ecsiitm.com).

Topic: Corrosion Monitoring by various Advance NDT Testing

Affiliation: PRICIPAL MANAGER – ASSET INTEGRITY AND ADVANCE NDT

Abstract: Corrosion monitoring is critical for ensuring the safety, efficiency, and longevity of oil and gas refineries. As corrosion threatens the structural integrity of pipelines, tanks, and process vessels, advanced Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) methods have become essential in detecting, monitoring, and mitigating corrosion-related risks. Techniques like Ultrasonic Testing (UT), including Time of Flight Diffraction (ToFD) and Phased Array Ultrasonics (PAUT), enable precise wall thickness measurements and flaw detection within metals, providing real-time data on material degradation. Eddy Current Testing (ECT) offers another non-invasive solution for detecting surface and near-surface corrosion, while Magnetic Flux Leakage (MFL) effectively evaluates storage tanks and pipelines for corrosion pits and material loss. 
Emerging techniques such as Guided Wave Testing (GWT) allow for long-range corrosion assessments along pipelines without requiring disassembly, making it particularly valuable for remote or hard-to-access areas. 
. The combination of these NDT technologies, supported by advanced data analytics, enables proactive maintenance, helping refineries reduce unexpected downtime, optimize inspection schedules, and ensure compliance with industry safety standards. By implementing these advanced NDT methods, the oil and gas sector can better predict corrosion rates and implement timely preventive measures, ensuring safe, sustainable, and cost-effective operations.

Biography : Pratik Patel is a Principal Manager at SGS India with over 15 years of diverse experience in Quality Management, Asset Integrity, and Corrosion Control within the oil and gas sector. He holds a BE in Mechanical Engineering and is a certified professional in Risk-Based Inspection (RBI), holding credentials like API 580 and certifications in various NDT techniques (RT, UT, MPT, LPT, VT). At SGS, Pratik has successfully led RBI projects for major refineries, including BPCL and Nayara Energy, and played a pivotal role in establishing the Asset Integrity and NDT team. 
Pratik’s expertise extends to incident investigation, quality control, and inspection planning, supported by his strong leadership skills. He has a proven track record of developing customized solutions for asset integrity management, overseeing large teams, and collaborating effectively with clients and regulatory agencies. His contributions have significantly enhanced operational efficiency and safety compliance in refinery projects across India.