02-13: The Control of Bacteria on Surfaces: Effectiveness of Bromine-Based

Proper cooling system operation depends on maintaining clean system surfaces for optimum heat transfer and system longevity. Biofilms or microbiological growth on surfaces can negatively impact the operation of cooling systems in many ways by impeding efficient heat transfer in heat exchangers, by clogging film fill surfaces, and by creating an environment for destructive and pathological organisms such as sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRBs) and Legionella pneumophila. For the past several years, we have studied the effectiveness of bromine-based biocides for control of biofilm bacteria in general and for control of problem organisms like Legionella pheumophila and SRBs in particular. This work indicates subtle differences in the activity of various bromine-biocides and provides guidance for the development of effective microbiological treatment strategies for industrial cooling systems.