Impedimetric characterization of the changes produced in the electrode–solution interface by bacterial attachment

Abstract

This paper describes a new method for measuring the attachment of bacteria, specifically Escherichia coli on platinum electrodes using impedance spectroscopy. Impedance spectroscopy measurements showed that the double layer capacitance of the electrode was very sensitive both to the concentration of bacteria in the solution and to the attachment time. Impedance measurements of E. coli were compared with classical measurements of bacterial attachment on identical electrodes such as staining/microscopy and bacterial removal by sonication and plating onto agar. The relationship between the measured impedance of the electrode during attachment and the biophysical processes involved is discussed.