Solutions-Oriented Research

Fundamental Research à  Industrial Solutions

Fundamental Research

CBE research is directed at finding solutions to biofilm related problems and developing opportunities in biofilm technology for our industrial collaborators and members. Our breadth of fundamental research has contributed biofilm knowledge, models and analytical methods that are applied toward product development and process problems in industry. At the fundamental level, industry members have ready access to biofilm resources that include the following research areas:

• Understanding why biofilm microorganisms are difficult to "kill" compared to suspended microorganisms.
• Molecular and genetic characteristics of biofilm microorganisms.
• Structure and function of a biofilm.
• Attachment phenomena of biofilm microorganisms.
• Biofilm analytical methods.
• Modeling of biofilm activity.

Solutions to Biofilm Concerns in Industry

Under specific sponsored projects, CBE researchers work with industry to apply the fundamental biofilm knowledge and research tools to address specific industry concerns. Typically, these projects require that investigations span the gap between laboratory bench-top work to conducting studies in actual field environments that at least mimic field conditions. Examples of how CBE R&D meets industry’s needs include:

• Research and field application of technologies to control microbial souring of oil fields.
• Research and evaluation of potential products to control biofilms in sink drains, toilets, pools and other household environments.
• Evaluation of anti-infective coatings on wound dressings, catheters, heart valves and other medically related surfaces.
• Development of biofilm analytical and screening technologies for all areas of biofilm applications.
• Development of biobarrier and bioremediation technologies.
• Research on the impact of biofilm regrowth in drinking water distribution systems and development of technologies to control biofilm and associated corrosion.
• Research on the impact and control of biofilm in water treatment and desalination membranes.
• Evaluation of biocide penetration into biofilm.
• Determining the role of biofilm in causing "blue water" in drinking water systems that use copper pipes.
• Developing bioelectric technologies to control or enhance biofilm control in medical applications.

For specific information about some of the CBE's industry sponsored research, go to the Industry Sponsored Research web pages.

Please email or phone Paul Sturman (406-994-2102) for further information on how the CBE works with industry in developing biofilm technology and solutions.