Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 6, 2026

Automated 3D Optical Coherence Tomography to Elucidate Biofilm Morphogenesis Over Large Spatial Scales
Published on: August 21, 2019
Fiber-optic microsensors to measure backscattered light intensity in biofilms
H Beyenal1, Z Lewandowski, C Yakymyshyn
1Center for Biofilm Engineering, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana 59717, USA.
Abstract:
We have constructed tapered fiber-optic microsensors with a tip diameter of less than 10 microm to measure profiles of backscattered light in biofilms, which are thin layers of micro-organisms firmly attached to surfaces. The observed response agrees well with local effective diffusivity microelectrode measurements, with R(2) > 0.85. A strong relation between signal intensity and wavelength has been observed at 670 and 1320 nm. These sensors have the potential to replace local effective diffusivity microelectrodes for true in situ biofilm measurements.
Related Concept Videos
Microbial Biosensors
Microbial Growth Measurement: Indirect Methods

