79-11: Biofilm Development and Destruction in Turbulent Flow

Microbial fouling in power plant condensers decreases heat transfer and fluid flow resulting in energy losses. Biofouling control is generally accomplished by chlorine addition creating potential toxicity problems in receiving waters. A better understanding of fouling film development and destruction (including stoichiometry and kinetics) is necessary to maintain satisfactory effluent water quality while minimizing the effects of biofouling and its control.
Methods for measurement of biofilm development are presented, as well as indirect measurement of biofilm development which serves as measures of fouling (frictional resistance and heat transfer resistance). Laboratory systems have been developed to determine rate and extent of fouling as a function of wall shear stress, water quality and bulk temperature.