Iron as a biofilm control agent: manipulation of biofilm development and differentiation

In order to optimize operative parameters in wastewater treatment plants, drip irrigation systems as well as in biofilm reactors, it is necessary to understand biofilm development and proliferation under certain conditions. Additionally, the physical structure of biofilms is of great interest since it determines the interaction with its microenvironment, while knowledge about the mechanical behavior of biofilms is important for applying e.g., cleaning procedures.