12] Methods used to assess biofouling of material used in distribution and domestic water systems

Abstract

Publisher Summary The inner surfaces of water distribution pipes and domestic plumbing pipe systems are potential sites for biofilm development. Microbial cells found as part of a biofilm contribute to the contamination of the water bulk phase, possibly due to sloughing as a result of water shear. This chapter discusses how different grades and different surface finishes of stainless steel could affect the microbiology of biofilms at different water flow rates within potable water systems. A mains water simulation system was designed to investigate the effects of flow rate on the microbiology of biofilms, using stainless steel grades 304 and 316 as the metal substratum. The chapter also discusses methods used to assess biofouling of material used in distribution and domestic water systems. All stainless steel slide surfaces used in the mains water simulation system are cleaned in 70% alcohol for a period of 1 hour prior to use. The whole simulation system is also sterilized with peracetic acid according to recommended procedures supplied by the manufacturers. Biofilms are removed from the slides, with the use of a sterile scalpel, and suspended in 10 ml double distilled water before freeze drying and being weighed.