Investigating the Effect of Iron Salts on E. coli and E. faecalis Biofilm Formation in Water Distribution Pipelines

Abstract

The water distribution system is a critical infrastructure aiming to deliver safe and clean drinking water, with pipeline materials significantly influencing water quality and efficiency. One critical factor in selecting pipeline materials is the potential for biofilm formation on the inner surfaces of pipes. This study investigates the effects of three iron salts—iron (II) sulfate heptahydrate, iron (III) nitrate nonahydrate, and iron (III) chloride on biofilm formation by Escherichia coli and Enterococcus faecalis in pipeline environments, focusing on water distribution systems. While previous research has examined the effects of iron on various bacterial species, there are limited data on E. coli and E. faecalis biofilm formation in the context of water distribution systems. Results reveal that iron (III) chloride significantly inhibited E. coli biofilm formation by up to 80%, while E. faecalis biofilm growth was promoted by iron (II) sulfate heptahydrate, with an increase of approximately 45%. These findings underscore the critical role of managing iron concentrations to mitigate biofilm-related issues, which influence water quality, infrastructure durability, and microbial resistance. The study highlights the importance of integrating these insights into sustainable water management practices and advancing pipeline material innovations to enhance public health and environmental resilience.