Biological fouling
Biological fouling (or biofouling) refers to the collection of impure or unwanted organisms (including bacteria, plants, small animals and so on) that may colonise, resulting in biofilms in marine and industrial settings.
Biofouling can sometimes interfere with the operation of equipment (including marine vehicles) or the purity of water collection and delivery systems (including inlets, pipes and so on). If biofouling occurs in certain types of mechanical systems (including heating and cooling systems), it can cause clogging that may lead to poor performance, system failures and costly remedial works.
Steps to address biofouling (sometimes referred to as anti-fouling measures) will depend on the type of mechanical systems and the cause of the biofouling condition.
NB Water safety in buildings, published by the World Health Organization in 2011, defines biofilms as: ‘A slimy matrix produced and inhabited by bacteria, which enables the bacteria to adhere to a surface and carry out certain essential biochemical processes.’
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Biofilm.
- BSRIA Water Treatment for Closed Heating and Cooling Systems BG 50/2021.
- Copper in construction.
- Foul water.
- Groundwater control in urban areas.
- Heating ventilation and air conditioning.
- Pipework.
- Training for pre-commissioning cleaning of pipework systems.
- Water purification.
- Water treatment.
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
Accommodating the Victorian and Edwardian working woman. Book review.
Rethinking passive fire protection in design
PFP demands the same level of design rigour as structure or services.
38% of Gen Zs feel safe when a fire door is wedged open.
Stunning images from around the world
Shortlist for CIOB’s Art of Building photography competition.
Guidance for conversion of traditional pre-1919 stone buildings.
Industrial heritage in the Ruhr
A marked difference to the fate of industrial landscapes in the UK.
Communities will be able to build their own clean energy.
Why diversity and inclusion matters for SMEs
CIOB’s D&I Charter shows how practical changes can support long-term growth.
Cut electricity bills to power growth
Coalition sends joint letter to the Chancellor.
Gasholders: a history in pictures. Book review.
Recognition, influence and growth
SocEnv identifies three strategic pillars in new strategy to 2045.
Discover the future of roofing, cladding and insulation.