In order to investigate the suitability of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) produced by bacteria for corrosion inhibition, a system for simulation of microbially influenced corrosion (MIC) was established. Afterwards, various strains of bacteria including sulphate-reducing bacteria (SRB) and Pseudomonas were cultivated and their EPS harvested. These substances were tested in respect to their intrinsic corrosiveness towards different metal substrates. Based on the different behaviour of the EPS concerning their corrosiveness and on electrochemical results a choice of EPS suitable for prospective examinations was made. (c) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.