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 and news
British Architectural Sculpture 1851-1951
A rich heritage of decorative and figurative sculpture. Book review.
A programme to tackle the lack of diversity.
Independent Building Control review panel
Five members of the newly established, Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommended, panel appointed.
Welsh Recharging Electrical Skills Charter progresses
ECA progressing on the ‘asks’ of the Recharging Electrical Skills Charter at the Senedd in Wales.
A brief history from 1890s to 2020s.
CIOB and CORBON combine forces
To elevate professional standards in Nigeria’s construction industry.
Amendment to the GB Energy Bill welcomed by ECA
Move prevents nationally-owned energy company from investing in solar panels produced by modern slavery.
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Heat pumps, vehicle chargers and heating appliances must be sold with smart functionality.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
New-style degrees set for reformed ARB accreditation
Following the ARB Tomorrow's Architects competency outcomes for Architects.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.
Preserving, waterproofing and decorating buildings.