Biofilm Problems and Environments

Abstract

This chapter describes biofilm problems in various environments. It starts by introducing the marine environment and goes on to discuss biofilm problems like biofouling and corrosion that damage structures used in the building of sea vessels and ports. These problems are very expensive for the shipping industry. Next, the topic of soil and its bacteria are discussed. An emphasis is placed on pathogens that cause food contamination and plant diseases. The reader is also made aware of the biofilms colonizing in our households, especially in the bathrooms and kitchens. In this section, biofilms are mentioned that contaminate food, spread illness, stain counters, etc. Tips are provided too for effective cleaning to control and prevent biofilms in our homes and elsewhere. The next topic presents pathogens that cause problems for the food processing industries. This is followed by a description of how biofilms contribute to the slime and scale buildup in pipes and heat exchangers, which result in a reduced ability for liquid flow and heat exchange that might increase a company’s operational cost and energy consumption. The final section of this chapter is about biofilm problems in hospitals and other medical areas.