A comprehensive overview
The presence of contaminants in water or solutions is notably due to the formation and development of one or more biofilms within the installation. A biofilm is a layer of microorganisms, embedded in a solid matrix, adhering to each other and/or to surfaces.
These microorganisms can enter the system via water, air, or both.
The major issue is assessing the actual level of contamination or biofilm development without being able to access the inside of the installation.
Indeed, only the quantity of “pioneer” or free microorganisms can be measured.
The biofilm therefore represents a potential and real hazard, capable at any time of releasing free cells. These cells can then attach elsewhere and develop new colonies.
The nature of the microorganisms present, their concentration, and their rate of proliferation depend on various factors: water temperature and pH, presence of light, dissolved oxygen concentration, presence of organic and inorganic nutrients, flow rate, system geometry, etc.
This biofilm formation phenomenon occurs within industrial installations such as pipes, particularly at bends and branch points, but also within valves and filtration systems.
Biofilm formation has numerous consequences for the production of water and solutions. This contamination can lead to biological fouling of the filtration system, resulting in filter clogging risks. Consequently, a pressure drop is observed, along with a significant release of undesirable microorganisms, leading to sanitary consequences, production shutdown risks, and even the loss of the filtered fluid. Finally, this situation can cause damage due to microbial corrosion (bio-corrosion).
In summary
Biofilm formation:
- Deterioration of nanofiltration and reverse osmosis systems
- Deterioration of filtration membranes
- Filter clogging
- Pressure drop
- Increased operating costs
- Bio-corrosion
Pemflow solutions
Taking all necessary measures to prevent biofilm formation is an essential approach to ensure the long-term compliance of the system at an acceptable cost.
Selecting the quality of the installation is the first decisive measure, because, as is often the case, a minimal initial investment may ultimately cost more during operation. Continuous bio-decontamination is a preventive measure to destroy “pioneer” or free cells, using heat or ozonation. In addition to continuous treatment, hot water, steam, or an oxidizing chemical agent (such as peracetic acid) can be used periodically.
UV radiation significantly limits the number of pioneer cells but has no effect on an established biofilm.
To reduce biological fouling, you can also implement filtration devices incorporating active silver and zinc (Ag/Zn).
This solution prevents the growth of bacteria and algae through three complementary mechanisms: it blocks transport across cell walls, inhibits cell division, and disrupts cellular metabolism. This innovative technology combines several advantages:
- Antimicrobial or anti-algal action
- Graded-density structure for maximum particle retention capacity
- Limitation of biological fouling of filters and biofilm accumulation throughout the circuit
- Control of free biological load in the water loop
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