Biofilm research advances from an innovative bibliometric method

Biofilms are microorganisms attached to surfaces and embedded within a self-produced extracellular polymeric substance, acting as a protective matrix. They play a crucial role in environmental surfaces and interfaces. Beneficial biofilms, such as those in biofilm reactors, aid in pollutant removal from water, while harmful biofilms contribute to infections, such as lung infections. Given the significance of biofilm research, mapping its scientific landscape is essential. Traditional bibliometric tools like VOSviewer provide visually clear analyses but have limitations in their depth. This study introduces a new bibliometric approach using an R-based package, a key finding of which is that it offers more detailed and insightful information than VOSviewer. Utilizing this method, the study comprehensively summarizes beneficial biofilms and their applications, as well as harmful biofilms and their associated health risks. Additionally, the study examines future research directions, highlighting the potential integration of big data and machine learning into biofilm research, which could significantly enhance analytical capabilities and foster innovation in this field.