Understanding and Addressing Biofilm Formation in Tanks

Water is a basic human need that cannot be replaced.

Source: wikipedia.com

In Indonesia, the water refill business is a popular solution to meet people's drinking water needs. However, behind the convenience and affordable prices, there is a big challenge that these businesses have to face, which is maintaining the quality of water that is safe and healthy for consumption. One of the main problems often encountered is biofilm formation in water storage tanks.

Biofilm is a thin layer formed from a collection of microorganisms attached to a surface. In the context of a water refill business, biofilms can form inside storage tanks, pipes, and even on filtration system membranes. The presence of biofilms not only reduces water quality, but can also be a source of contamination that is harmful to consumer health.

This article will take an in-depth look at the phenomenon of biofilms in the water refill business, from the process of their formation, the impacts they cause, to prevention and treatment strategies. We will also look at how the latest technologies and innovations can help refill water businesses overcome this problem, as well as the importance of understanding the applicable water quality regulations and standards in Indonesia.

Understanding Biofilm in the Context of Water Refill Business

Source: https://www.researchgate.net/

Biofilms form when microorganisms, especially bacteria, attach to a surface and begin to multiply. This process begins with the attachment of bacterial cells to the surface, followed by the production of an extracellular matrix composed of polysaccharides, proteins, and DNA. This matrix serves as a "home" for the bacterial colonies, protecting them from unfavorable environmental conditions and even from the effects of disinfectants.

In a water refill business, biofilms can form at various points in the system, including:

• Raw water storage tanks
• Distribution pipes and lines
• Filter and membrane surfaces
• Treated water storage tanks

Biofilm formation is accelerated by several factors, including:

1. Availability of nutrients in water
2. Suitable temperature for bacterial growth
3. Slow water flow or stagnation
4. Rough or porous surface
5. Lack of regular disinfection or cleaning

The water refill business in Indonesia faces unique challenges in this regard. Many depots draw water from sources referred to as "mountain water", although this claim cannot always be verified. Some use PDAM water or well water as a source. Regardless of the source, these raw waters potentially contain microorganisms and nutrients that can support biofilm growth.

In addition, Indonesia's tropical climate with high temperature and humidity creates ideal conditions for microorganism growth. This makes biofilm prevention and control a greater challenge for refill water operators.

The Impact of Biofilm on Water Quality and Consumer Health

The presence of biofilm in water refill systems can cause various problems, both in terms of water quality and consumer health. Some of the impacts to be aware of include:

1. Decreased Water Quality:
   • Changes in water taste and odor
   • Increased turbidity
   • Water discoloration
2. Health Risks:
   • Contamination with pathogens that can cause disease
   • Release of toxins from some types of bacteria
   • Increased bacterial resistance to disinfectants
3. Operational Issues:
   • Decrease in filtration system efficiency
   • Increased operational and maintenance costs
   • Damage to equipment and infrastructure

One concrete example of the impact of biofilms can be seen from the experience of Water Factory 21 in Orange County, California, United States. This facility uses a reverse osmosis (RO) system to purify wastewater before it is injected back into the aquifer. Biofilms formed on the RO membranes caused dramatic performance degradation, required frequent cleaning, and even reduced the life of the membranes.

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According to a study conducted at Water Factory 21, the costs incurred due to biofouling (biofilm buildup) are estimated at more than $700,000 per year, or about 25% of total annual operating costs. This figure shows how serious the economic impact of biofilms can be.

In Indonesia, although there has been no comprehensive study of the economic impact of biofilm on water refill businesses, we can estimate that this problem also incurs significant costs. These include costs for more frequent filter changes, increased disinfectant usage, and potential loss of customers due to water quality issues.

Strategies for Water Refill Businesses.

Strategies for Biofilm Prevention and Control

Given the magnitude of the impact that biofilm can have, it is important for refill water businesses to implement effective prevention and control strategies. Some approaches that can be implemented include:

1. Choosing the Right Water Source:
   • Make sure the water source used is of good and consistent quality
   • Conduct regular testing of microbiological and chemical parameters of raw water
   • If using PDAM or well water, consider adding a pre-treatment stage
2. Optimal System Design:
   • Use materials that are resistant to biofilm growth, such as stainless steel or food-grade plastic
   • Avoid areas of stagnation in the system with proper pipe design
   • Ensure the system has good drainage for easy cleaning
3. Application of Proper Filtration and Disinfection Technology:
   • Use a multilevel filtration system, ranging from sand filters, activated carbon, to ultrafiltration or reverse osmosis
   • Apply disinfection using UV and ozone to eliminate microorganisms
   • Consider using DuPont OMEXELL ultrafiltration membranes for more effective filtration

1. Routine Cleaning and Sanitization:
   • Perform regular cleaning and sanitizing of storage tanks
   • Use an effective cleaning solution to remove biofilm
   • Apply backwashing procedures on filters regularly
2. Monitoring and Quality Control:
   • Perform regular microbiological and water chemistry testing
   • Use Create's pH and conductivity analyzer for real-time monitoring
   • Implement a comprehensive quality management system

One technology that can be considered to prevent biofilm formation is the use of ultrafiltration membranes. Toray ultrafiltration membranes, for example, can remove particles down to 0.01 microns in size, including most bacteria and viruses. This can significantly reduce the risk of microbiological contamination and biofilm formation at a later stage.

For reverse osmosis systems, the use of DuPont FilmTec membranes for brackish water can provide optimal performance in removing contaminants, including microorganisms. These membranes are also designed to have better resistance to fouling, which can help reduce the frequency of cleaning and replacement.

Innovations in Biofilm Control

Technological developments continue to bring new innovations in biofilm control. Some of the latest promising approaches include:

1. Use of Nanomaterials:
   • Silver nanoparticles as antimicrobial agents
   • Coating surfaces with anti-biofilm nanomaterials
2. Sensor Technology and Real-time Monitoring:
   • Biofilm sensors that can detect biofilm formation at an early stage
   • IoT-based integrated water quality monitoring system
3. Biological Approach:
   • Use of bacteriophages to control specific bacterial populations
   • Application of enzymes that can degrade the biofilm matrix
4. Advanced Cleaning Technologies:
   • Ultrasonic-based automated cleaning system
   • Use of electrolyzed water for sanitization

While some of these technologies may not yet be widely available or affordable for small-scale water refill businesses in Indonesia, it is important for entrepreneurs to stay abreast of the latest developments. These innovations could be potential solutions in the future to address biofilm issues more effectively and efficiently.

Water Quality Regulations and Standards in Indonesia

Water refill businesses in Indonesia must comply with various regulations and quality standards set by the government. Some of the key regulations that need to be considered include:

1. Minister of Health Regulation Number 43 Year 2014 on Drinking Water Depot Sanitation Hygiene
2. Minister of Health Regulation Number 492/MENKES/PER/IV/2010 on Drinking Water Quality Requirements
3. SNI 01-3553-2006 on Bottled Drinking Water

These regulations cover various aspects, from technical requirements of drinking water depots, water quality standards, to testing and monitoring procedures. It is important for refill water entrepreneurs to understand and comply with these regulations, not only to avoid legal sanctions, but also to ensure consumer safety and satisfaction.

In the context of biofilm control, it is important to understand and comply with these regulations.

In the context of biofilm control, this regulation emphasizes the importance of sanitation and hygiene in the refillable drinking water production process. Some important points that need to be considered include:

• The obligation to disinfect raw water and treated water
• Requirement to perform regular cleaning and sanitizing of equipment
• Strict microbiological standards, including maximum limits for total coliform bacteria and E. coli
• Requirement to conduct regular water quality testing at an accredited laboratory

To meet these standards, the use of appropriate filtration and disinfection technologies is critical. For example, the use of HydroPro ultraviolet disinfection systems can help ensure water is free from microbiological contamination. Additionally, the use of NSF-certified Pentair Pentek cartridge filters can provide additional assurance of the quality of the water produced.

The Role of Education and Training in Biofilm Control

One important aspect of biofilm control that is often overlooked is education and training for refill water businesses. An in-depth understanding of biofilms, their impact, and how to prevent them is critical to ensure effective implementation of control strategies.

Some of the key topics that need to be included in education and training programs include:

1. Basics of water microbiology and biofilm formation
2. Water quality sampling and testing techniques
3. Correct cleaning and sanitizing procedures
4. Operation and maintenance of filtration and disinfection systems
5. Understanding of applicable water quality regulations and standards

This training is not only important for business owners, but also for all staff involved in the refillable drinking water production process. With a good understanding, each team member can play an active role in maintaining water quality and preventing biofilm formation.

In addition, education also needs to be provided to consumers. Consumer understanding of the importance of water quality and how to choose a good refill water depot can drive improved standards across the industry. This can be done through educational campaigns, informative leaflets, or even through social media.

Conclusion

Biofilm is a serious challenge to the water refill business in Indonesia. The impact is not only on water quality and consumer health, but also on the economic and operational aspects of the business. However, with a good understanding and implementation of appropriate strategies, this problem can be effectively managed.

The key to biofilm control is a comprehensive approach that involves:

1. Choosing the right water source and treatment technology
2. Application of strict sanitation and cleaning procedures
3. Use of effective filtration and disinfection systems
4. Routine water quality monitoring
5. Compliance with applicable regulations and standards
6. Continuous education and training for businesses and staff

By implementing these strategies, water refill businesses in Indonesia can improve the quality of their products, ensure consumer safety, and ultimately, increase public trust in the industry. Investing in technology and best practices for biofilm control is not only a regulatory imperative, but also a strategic move for long-term business sustainability.

In closing, it is important to remember that biofilm control is an ongoing process. Technology and knowledge are constantly evolving, and businesses must stay up-to-date with the latest developments. With a commitment to continuous learning and quality improvement, the refillable drinking water industry in Indonesia can continue to thrive and make a positive contribution to public health.

Questions and Answers

1. What is the difference between biofilms and ordinary microbiological contamination in water?

Biofilms and ordinary microbiological contamination have some important differences:

Biofilms are communities of microbes in water.

Biofilms are communities of microorganisms attached to surfaces and enveloped by an extracellular matrix that they produce themselves. Ordinary microbiological contamination refers to the presence of free microorganisms in water.

Biofilms are more difficult to remove.

Biofilms are more difficult to remove because the extracellular matrix protects the microorganisms from disinfectants. Ordinary contamination is easier to address with standard disinfection methods.

Biofilms can be a source of microorganisms in water.

Biofilms can be a persistent source of contamination because microorganisms can leach from the biofilm into the water. Ordinary contamination usually comes from external sources.

2. How to detect the presence of biofilm in a water refill system?

Biofilm detection can be done through several methods:

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1. Visual inspection: Inspecting tank and pipe surfaces for slime coating or discoloration.

2. Swab test: Taking a sample from the surface using a sterile swab and performing microbiological culture.

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3. Water analysis: Conducting routine microbiological and chemical testing to detect increased bacterial counts or changes in water quality.

4.

4. Use of biofilm sensors: New technology that can detect biofilm formation at an early stage.

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5. Pressure drop monitoring: An increase in pressure drop in a filtration system may indicate the presence of biofilm formation.

3. Is the use of ozone more effective than chlorine in preventing biofilm formation?

Ozone and chlorine have their own advantages and disadvantages in preventing biofilm formation:

Ozone is more effective in killing microbes.

Ozone is more effective in killing microorganisms and leaves no taste or odor to the water. However, ozone has a short half-life and does not provide residual protection.

Chlorine, especially in the form of chloramines, can provide longer residual protection. However, chlorine can react with organic matter to form undesirable byproducts.

Chlorine, especially in the form of chloramines, can provide longer residual protection.

In the context of water refill businesses in Indonesia, the use of ozone is often preferred as it leaves no taste and odor. However, a combination of disinfection methods, including UV and ozone, often provides the best results in preventing biofilm formation.

References

1. Byrne, W. "Reverse osmosis a practical guide for industrial users." (Page 191-193)

"The availability of nutrients in the Water Factory 21 municipal wastewater resulted in the propagation of bacteria that grew quickly and could readily adhere to membrane surfaces."

2.

2. Hendricks, D.W. "Fundamentals of water treatment unit processes: physical, chemical, and biological." (Page 784)

"Biofilms, biofilm reactors, structure, transport of nutrients, biofilm reactors model, empirical equation"

3.

3. Pincus, L.I. "Practical Boiler Water Treatment including Air-Conditioning Systems." (Page 11)

"Practical Boiler Water Treatment"