Effects of pipe materials on biofouling under controlled hydrodynamic conditions

Abstract

Experiments were carried out to investigate pipe material impacts on biofouling, at high effluent concentration levels and under controlled hydrodynamic conditions. Two velocities (0.4 and 0.8 m s−1) were used to monitor biofilm growth on polyethylene (PE) and polyvinylchloride (PVC) pipe walls, respectively. These conditions were established based on wastewater irrigation practices. A decrease in biomass is observed after 49 days of experiments for both velocities and may be related to biofilm detachment. Biofilm growth is greater at 0.8 m s−1. For both velocities, PVC is less sensitive to biofilm growth than PE. Pipe straightness plays a primary role in biofilm growth control. This effect is more significant than pipe surface characteristics (roughness, hydrophobic/hydrophilic properties).