Relevance of biofilms for the biodeterioration of surfaces of polymeric materials

摘要: Deterioration of polymeric materials is caused by adhering microorganisms that colonize their surfaces, forming biofilms; thus, biodeterioration a biofilm problem. Biofilms consist embedded in polymer matrix, attached to surfaces all kind. Structure and function synthetic can be damaged biofilms various ways, among these: (1) coating the surface, masking surface properties contaminating adjacent media such as water released microorganisms; (2) increasing leaching additives monomers out matrix microbial degradation; (3) attack enzymes or radicals biological origin additives; leading both embrittlement loss mechanical stability; (4) accumulating penetrating with filaments, causing swelling increased conductivity; (5) excretion lipophilic pigments lead unwanted colours polymer. Direct indirect damage these five mechanisms very high.