What is biofilm

water layer

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Biofilm is a composition of water (or other liquids) and consists of single cells that attach themselves by means of self-produced slime, forming a layer that is difficult to remove. Moreover, even more bacteria, fungi, and yeasts can stick to it.

The mature, fully functioning biofilm is like a living tissue on the inner wall of a pipe, storage tanks, wells, heat exchangers, etc. It is a complex, cooperating community of different types of microorganisms, each living in their favorable microclimate. Also, in a drinking water system, more than 99% of the bacteria are part of a biofilm that is attached to the inner wall of the pipes.

Extracellular Polymer Substance

Glycocalyx

Glycocalyx, also known as Extracellular matrix or EPS (Extracellular Polymer Substance), can make up 90 to 95% of the biomass of a biofilm, the rest are bacteria. Since a glycocalyx contains a lot of water, a surface covered with biofilm is gelatinous and slippery.

Afterwards, the glycocalyx catches other bacteria.
They also start to multiply and build their glycocalyx.

Biofilm can contain various bacteria that can produce corrosive chemicals. For example, anaerobic sulfate-reducing bacteria. These bacteria produce sulfuric acid, which can lead to corrosion of metal pipes. 

Biofilm

Iron-oxidizing bacteria

So-called iron-oxidizing bacteria can also cause corrosion of metal, resulting in expensive repairs of leaking pipes.

Moreover, biofilm reduces the diameter of the pipes.

This causes more resistance and as a result, less water can be pumped around. This can lead to higher energy costs and dangerous situations....

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Possible consequences of Biofilm

Development of pathogens

Endotoxins settle in the intestinal mucosa

Development of mycotoxins

Damaged liver

Increases the risk of bacteria, e.g. legionella and others

Weakened immune system

Higher medical costs

Oxidation of the installation

Higher maintenance costs

Creates an unsafe workspace by increasing the pressure in pipes

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