Artificial Biofilm Formation on the Laboratory Scale

Abstract

Biofilms are collections of microorganisms that stick to each other on a variety of moist surfaces. These microbial communities are anchored to the surface by a glue-like extracellular polymeric substance (EPS). Biofilms grow, mature, and disperse cells in order to spread and colonize new surfaces. They can grow in different environments such as on floors, counter tops, food, human tissue, and ships. These films cause corrosion in metals and pose health risks to humans. Therefore, they are of interest to researchers who want to prevent and control them. Two different methods are presented for artificially producing biofilms at an accelerated rate in a laboratory setting. One involves an intermittent flow of water over various test materials while the other continuously exposes the items to moisture.