Fungi can be further divided into molds and yeasts, with the former generally considered more significant in corrosion problems. Molds are nonphotosynthetic and can utilize many compounds as nutrients - oxygen and organic compounds are considered important for their growth. Fungi have been implicated in the degradation of metals, concrete, wood, stone, glass and synthetic polymers. A well-documented corrosion problem associated with fungi had occurred aircraft fuel tanks. Fungi can produce corrosive species, such as organic acids and have also been associated with fouling and related corrosion problems.

References:

MTI Publication No.13, "Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion: A State-of-the-Art Review", Second Edition, 1989.

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