Microbial colonization of the walls of a copper pipeline in a central disinfection dosage unit
Exner, M.; Tuschewitzki, G.J.; Thofern, E.
Zentralblatt für Bakteriologie Mikrobiologie und Hygiene. 1. Abt. Originale B Hygiene 177(1-2): 170-181
1983
ISSN/ISBN: 0932-6073 PMID: 6670394 Document Number: 210042
Part of a copper-pipe taken from an 11 years old central disinfection dosage apparatus was investigated by Scanning Electron Microscopy. The pipe was covered by a thin paste-like coating. SEM revealed two distinct layers. In direct contact to the copper a layer of extracellular polymeric substance was seen. In direction to the luminary we found a second layer consisting of bacteria which were not embedded in extracellular polymeric substance. Some of the microorganisms of this layer showed holes. Bacteria in direct contact with disinfection solution showed a rough thickened surface indicating the existence of capsule substances.