Conclusion
Bacillus subtilis biofilms were cultivated at
Fe2+ inflow concentrations of 0.25 and 2.5 mg/L,
respectively, as well as at wall shear stress levels of 0.05 and 0.27
Pa, respectively. Structure development was successfully monitored by
means of optical coherence tomography and quantified by a large set of
ten structural parameters. Through analysis of ten replicates the
following conclusions are drawn:
- Iron is - independently of its concentration - incorporated and
accumulated within the biofilm matrix as modifications of FeO(OH).Bacillus subtilis biofilms cultivated in this study showed the
accumulation of α- and β-FeO(OH).
- FeO(OH) seems to provide cross-linking abilities and may thrive EPS
production enhancing the adhesive as well as cohesive strength of
investigated biofilms.
- A positive correlation between the Fe2+ inflow
concentration and biofilm development/accumulation partially
compensates increased detachment of biofilm at elevated wall shear
stress levels.