Biofilms, which comprise the "slime" or biological contamination found on surfaces in contact with flowing fluids, contain bacteria, fungi, microbial corrosion products, and entrapped clay and soil materials. Biofilms have been identified as the primary culprit in the biological contamination of drinking water distribution systems and industrial process water systems. Furthermore, biofilms are responsible for the loss of efficiency in heat exchangers and cooling towers and have also been identified as a persistent source of contamination and infection in medical implant devices.

For more information visit the website of the Center for Biofilm Engineering at Montana State University.