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Updated: Aug 23, 2025

Waste Water Derived Electroactive Microbial Biofilms: Growth, Maintenance, and Basic Characterization
Published on: December 29, 2013
The use of the electromagnetic field in microbial process bioengineering
Joanna Jabłońska1, Kamila Dubrowska1, Marta Gliźniewicz2
1West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Faculty of Chemical Technology and Engineering, Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, Szczecin, Poland.
Electromagnetic fields (EMF) can influence microorganisms, offering potential applications in biotechnology for enhanced biomass and metabolic activity. This review explores EMF
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology and Biophysics
- Microbiology and Process Engineering
Background:
- Electromagnetic fields (EMF) exhibit diverse effects on microbial life.
- Growing research indicates EMF's potential utility in biotechnological applications.
Approach:
- This review synthesizes current knowledge on EMF applications in bioprocessing.
- It examines findings across bacteria, archaea, fungi, yeasts, viruses, and microalgae.
- Biological data is presented based on EMF classification.
Key Points:
- EMF can stimulate or inhibit microbial growth and activity.
- Observed effects include increased biomass production, altered metabolism, and pigment secretion.
- Practical implications for process engineering are discussed.
Conclusions:
- EMF represents a promising tool for microbial bioprocessing.
- Further research is needed to address knowledge gaps and refine methodologies.
- Optimizing EMF parameters is crucial for effective biotechnological implementation.
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