Title: BIOFILM DEVELOPMENT ON NEW AND CLEANED SURFACE OF MEMBRANES

Primary Researcher: Ludmila Bereschenko
Email address: ludmila.bereschenko@wetsus.nl
Submitted on: May 24, 2005

Start date: 01 September 2004
End date: 01 September 2008

Introduction:

Biofilms are compact structures of microbial biomass in a polysaccharide matrix (EPS). These microbial communities within the biofilm matrix may communicate via chemical signals (quorum sensing) and function as a cooperative consortium, in a relatively complex and coordinated manner.

The formation of such films on membranes (biofouling) is mostly undesired, since they damage the equipment used in membrane separation systems and contribute to the contamination of the products.

Prevention of biofouling lead to unwanted chemical use and increased energy consumption.

A better understanding of microbiological processes associated with biofouling may help in devising effective control strategies, which is the challenge of this PhD-research.

Aim:

The overall objective of the proposed investigation is to study in detail any specific microbiological processes associated with biofouling in order to gain sufficient information to recommend effective procedures to remove accumulated biofilm and prevent re-contamination and further biofouling problems

Research:

In this project, an in situ investigation of the composition of the microbial population as well as the spatial distribution of the various bacteria during the development of the biofilm will be performed. Biofilms in contaminated RO membranes will be used as an model system.

Future Research

The focus of future research will be on the effect of some polysaccharidase enzymes specific for the EPS of different organisms produced during different phases of biofilm growth on biofilm formation and biofouling reduction. A study into genes involved in EPS synthesis and decay will be performed. Furthermore, the role of quorum sensing signalling molecules in destabilization of biofilms should be investigated.

Web page

http://www.wetsus.nl/

Funding via University

Yes

External funding

Yes

External Funding Sponsors

Funded by Wetsus, WU and TU-Delft