Comparability biofilm structure on ITO sensor with forms generated on technical materials

摘要

Spores and forms of microorganisms more resistant to disinfectants enter the water supply system as a consequence of imperfections in the treatment process. This may result in a decrease in water quality on its way to the consumers, lack of water stability, and epidemiological risk. The presence of nutrients in water contributes to the development of the dispersed state of microorganisms as well as biological membranes. A mature biological film is a complex structure comparable to an ecosystem. Regardless of the technical material used for the construction of the water supply system, there is a risk of deterioration in the mechanical and hydraulic properties of the pipes. The objective of the article was to present differences in the processes of biofilm colonisation on different materials: ITO ( material used for the construction of the impedance sensor to measure single cell adhesion to pipes) and polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, and polybutylene (used for the construction of the water supply system). Results indicated that the ITO material is settled in a similar way as technical material for the construction of water supply system. Therefore, it can be used as a material on sensor base to measure the biofilm development. The most susceptible to biological growth was polybutylene and polyvinyl chloride, while the more gradual grades of colonization were observed on polyethylene and polypropylene.