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Updated: Feb 12, 2026

Waste Water Derived Electroactive Microbial Biofilms: Growth, Maintenance, and Basic Characterization
Published on: December 29, 2013
Biofilm growth and control in cooling water industrial systems
F Di Pippo1,2, L Di Gregorio1,3, R Congestri3
1CNR-IRSA, National Research Council, Water Research Institute, Via Salaria Km 29.300, Monterotondo 00015, Rome, Italy.
Abstract:
Matrix-embedded, surface-attached microbial communities, known as biofilms, profusely colonise industrial cooling water systems, where the availability of nutrients and organic matter favours rapid microbial proliferation and their adhesion to surfaces in the evaporative fill material, heat exchangers, water reservoir and cooling water sections and pipelines. The extensive growth of biofilms can promote micro-biofouling and microbially induced corrosion (MIC) as well as pose health problems associated with the presence of pathogens like Legionella pneumophila. This review examines critically biofilm occurrence in cooling water systems and the main factors potentially affecting biofilm growth, biodiversity and structure. A broad evaluation of the most relevant biofilm monitoring and control strategies currently used or potentially useful in cooling water systems is also provided.
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