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Related Concept Videos

Biofilms01:29

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Biofilms are complex communities of microorganisms encased in a self-produced extracellular polysaccharide matrix attached to surfaces. These microbial consortia can include single or multiple species, providing enhanced survival benefits by forming organized, multilayered structures.The formation of biofilms occurs through four key stages: attachment, colonization, development, and dispersal.During attachment, free-swimming planktonic cells adhere to a surface, often facilitated by...
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Mortar Joint Deterioration in Masonry01:13

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Mortar joint deterioration is a significant concern in masonry structures, with water accumulation in the joints leading to damage from freeze-thaw cycles. The repeated expansion of water during freezing and its melting during thawing develop and propagate cracks in the masonry joints. Eventually, this leads to the spalling of mortar from the joints, loosening masonry units and weakening the structure. The deteriorated mortar joints are also vulnerable to moisture intrusion into the walls.
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Waterproofing and Anti-Bacterial Admixtures in Concrete01:22

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Concrete's susceptibility to water absorption is due to the capillary action within the pores of its hydrated cement paste. This action draws water in, creating the need for waterproofing admixtures to prevent such penetration. The efficacy of these admixtures is contingent upon the water pressure, with variations arising from different conditions such as rain, capillary rise, or hydrostatic pressure in structures intended to hold water.
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Bioremediation00:46

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Acid Attack on Concrete01:21

Acid Attack on Concrete

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When acids come into contact with concrete, they initiate a chemical reaction that dissolves the hydrated cement paste. This process leads to softening and structural weakening of the concrete. This issue is commonly observed in environments such as chimneys, sewers, and industrial settings. The severity of the damage increases as the pH of the water interacting with the concrete drops below 6.5. In particular, a pH under 4.5 can cause significant concrete damage.
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Biological agents offer an effective means of controlling microbial growth by leveraging natural processes like predation, competition, and the secretion of antimicrobial substances.Predatory bacteria such as Bdellovibrio species target and kill pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli. They are widely used in poultry farms to control infections. Myxococcus species help combat plant-pathogenic fungi. These naturally occurring predators serve as eco-friendly alternatives to chemical pesticides and...
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Biofilms on stone monuments: biodeterioration or bioprotection?

Xiaobo Liu1, Youfen Qian2, Fasi Wu3

  • 1School of Environmental and Biological Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, 200 Xiaolingwei Street, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210094, China; Environmental Science and Engineering Research Group, Guangdong Technion-Israel Institute of Technology (GTIIT), 241 Daxue Road, Shantou, Guangdong 515063, China.

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Biofilms on stone monuments can harm or protect them. A new

Keywords:
active communitiesbiodeteriorationbiofilmsbioprotectionenvironmental factorsstone monuments

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Area of Science:

  • Environmental Science
  • Microbiology
  • Material Science

Background:

  • The role of biofilms in stone monument deterioration is debated.
  • Biofilms can be both biodeteriorative and bioprotective, complicating conservation efforts.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To propose a quantitative criterion for assessing the dual role of biofilms on stone monuments.
  • To differentiate between biodeterioration and bioprotection based on environmental factors.

Main Methods:

  • Introduction of the 'relative bioprotective ratio' criterion.
  • Comparative analysis of biodeterioration and weathering processes.
  • Monitoring of microflora dynamics under varying environmental conditions.

Main Results:

  • A clear boundary between biodeterioration and bioprotection was identified.
  • The balance between these roles is dynamic and influenced by environmental conditions.
  • Microflora composition significantly impacts the biofilm's effect on stone.

Conclusions:

  • The 'relative bioprotective ratio' provides a framework for evaluating biofilm impact.
  • Understanding microflora and environmental interactions is crucial for monument conservation.
  • Biofilm management strategies should consider the dynamic nature of their protective or destructive roles.