Biofilm control in water systems

What is a biofilm

To find out why we are engaged in combating biofilm, it is helpful to know what biofilm is. Biofilm, a slimy layer of microorganisms encased in a protective matrix, poses significant challenges across various industries. Whether in process water, animal drinking water, or other critical systems, biofilm thrives in environments where moisture and nutrients meet. Its presence leads to inefficiencies, health risks, and contamination that can disrupt operations and increase costs. (1)

Explore how biofilm affects different industries, particularly where contaminated water is a concern, and why proactive solutions are essential for long-term success.

Biofilm Challenges in Process Water Systems

Biofilm is a common issue in process water systems used in industries like food production, manufacturing, and energy. It forms inside pipelines, tanks, and heat exchangers, reducing operational efficiency. (2) Biofilm can act as an insulating layer, reducing heat transfer efficiency in cooling systems and heat exchangers. In combination with the acceleration of material degradation leads to costly repairs and system downtime. (3)

Additionally, biofilm can harbor pathogens that compromise the quality of process water, affecting product safety and compliance. For instance, in food and beverage processing, biofilm can contaminate process water, introducing harmful microorganisms like Salmonella or Listeria into the production line. (2)

Biofilm in Animal Drinking Water Systems

In agricultural settings, biofilm often forms in water troughs, pipelines, and storage tanks used for animal drinking water. These systems provide an ideal environment for biofilm growth due to the presence of organic matter and stagnant water. Biofilm buildup in pipes and drinking nipples can restrict water delivery, depriving animals of clean, sufficient water supplies.

Moreover, biofilm serves as a reservoir for harmful bacteria like E. coli, increasing the risk of disease in livestock. Consequently, contaminated drinking water impacts livestock health and productivity, reducing weight gain and milk production. For instance, a poultry farm using untreated water systems may face an outbreak of bacterial infections linked to biofilm contamination, leading to decreased egg production and increased veterinary costs. (4)

Microbiologically induced corrosion

Microbially induced corrosion (MIC) is a common industry phenomenon caused by the metabolic processes of biofilm-forming microorganisms. MIC decreases the lifespan and the quality of numerous materials such as metal, concrete, rubber, or even plastic. Consequently, this might lead to pipe leaks and in some cases, even clogging or fouling of the water distribution pipes.

Why biofilm is so persistent

The microorganisms not only attach to the surface, but even cooperate and spread through the water supply system. The microorganisms communicate by secreting a substance. Together they form a layer based on extracellular polymeric substances, which eventually becomes the slime layer. With proteins, they attach to each other and form not one, but even several layers. (5) In addition, the microorganisms spread through the rest of the system. This is what we call microcolony formation. We compare it to a forest because each species within the biofilm has its own task. Just like all the plants, trees and animals in a forest. Back to the question "what is a biofilm?" for a moment. A harmful collaboration of microorganisms that you would rather not have in your water or production pipelines. You wouldn't want them in your environment at all. The good news is: we've found a way around that.

How to Combat Biofilm in Water Systems

There are several techniques of how to get biofilm in process water or animal drinking water under control. Early detection, as with everything, is key. Monitor water quality regularly to identify biofilm formation before it becomes a larger issue.

Additionally, traditional cleaning/disinfecting agents often fail to penetrate biofilm’s protective matrix. The ones that are capable of removing biofilm are usually also harmful for the environment. (2) Although, there is a solution. Sustainable disinfection that is highly effective and removes not just biofilm but also a wide range of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and yeasts from water as well as surfaces. Watter developed a solution based on the natural process of electrolysis. This way our Watter System requires only salt, water, and electricity to produce the Watter Disinfection Solution. The Watter System is therefore a more environmentally friendly choice as it reduces CO2 commissions and plastic canisters usage due to the in-situ production.

The Domino Effect of Biofilm Across Industries

Regardless of the specific application, biofilm has a domino effect on water systems:

It contaminates process water and animal drinking water, leading to health risks.
It increases operational costs through energy losses, maintenance, and downtime.
It challenges regulatory compliance, especially in industries that rely on clean water.

Biofilm may be invisible to the naked eye, but its impact is far-reaching. Proactive management and innovative disinfection solutions are essential to prevent biofilm from compromising your systems. Ready to take action? Contact us today and learn how our sustainable solutions can help you eliminate biofilm and protect your water systems for good.

References:

Removing biofilm in a sustainable way