Biofouling is referred to as the settlement and growth of organisms on submerged structures, in short, it is unwanted deposition and growth of biofilms. This phenomenon can occur in an extremely wide range of situations, from the colonization of devices used in the production of ultra-pure, drinking and process water and the fouling of thermal exchangers, pipelines and reservoirs. Although biofouling occurs in different areas, it has a common cause, which is the biofilm. Biofilms are the most successful form of life on Earth and tolerate high amounts of biocides. Bioremediation has been used as the finest solution to pollutions but in turn this solution can causes biofouling if it is not accompanied by other technics. The hydrodynamic mechanical and medical consequences of biofouling organisms on water supply and treatment structures, e.g. Aerators, water pump, filters, reverse osmosis equipment, pipelines, heat exchangers etc. are of particular concern. There a number of issues with biofouling, these include:
Above all, these issues leads to the economic lost In terms of frequent maintenance and repair cost, reduced performance of the machineries and formation of algal bloom cover.
For a sustainable biofouling prevention and control, an integrated approach is suggested which includes the analysis of the fouling situation, a selection of suitable components from the anti-fouling menu, less use of chemicals that are source of nutrients to pathogenic microbes and an effective and representative monitoring of biofilm development. Being able to apply innovative solutions in combination with this knowledge in future could help to increase the productivity of wholesome water, enabling relevant targets to be met for resolving world water crisis.