Chapter 13 - Modification of material surface to regulate biofilm formation

Abstract

The bacteria have survived through aeons by adopting hostile and fluctuating conditions. They have been found to sustain on metallic surfaces like carbon steel, copper surface, and non-metallic surfaces by the formation of biofilms. The biofoulings facilitate the proliferation of these microbes, mostly in aquatic environments. Biofilms are harmful to human health, industrial settings, and naval resources. However, biofilms have been known to create bio-corrosion on metallic surfaces. Modifying the topography of the surface on which the microbes grow may prevent bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation. The surfaces may be modified to prevent the microbes from adhering to the surface. The topography of the surface, and its hydrodynamics, have been shown to control biofilm formation. Various Anti-biofouling methods are used to control or reduce biofilm formation and growth. Examples are acid coating, mercury paint, tributyltin, silicates, nano-anti-fouling paints, and electrodeposition coating. Besides, research in monitoring the growth of biofilms is the need of the day. The growth of biofilms is quantified based on direct measurement of the films or indirectly based on the metabolic activities of the biofilms. Usually, electrical conductivity, calorimetry, friction and pressure drop, acoustics, electromagnetic radiations, and Optical sensors are used for understanding the status of biofilm. In addition to this, imaging techniques like Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) provide considerable depth resolution of the microbes in biofilm. The field biofilm sensors can help to detect and count the cells of the biomass of the microbes. Using sensors to measure dissolved oxygen demand helps to monitor and control biomass development in a marine environment. In the future, one of the main areas of focus will be to control biofouling with the use of naturally produced antifouling agents instead of toxic chemicals that harm the health and environment.