How to remove Biofilm? Current Biofilm Removal Methods and Their Limitations

Biofilms—complex, surface-attached microbial communities—present persistent challenges across industries, from healthcare and food processing to agriculture and water systems. Once established, biofilms become highly resistant to antibiotics, disinfectants, and physical removal, making them difficult to eliminate completely. Understanding the current methods used to control biofilms—and their limitations—is essential for designing effective, sustainable interventions.

What Makes Biofilms So Difficult to Remove?

Biofilms are up to 1,000 times more resistant to antibiotics and disinfectants than free-floating bacteria. Their dense matrix acts like armor, protecting the inner microbial community from external threats. That’s why biofilm removal often requires more than just standard cleaning or disinfection.

Current Biofilm Eradication Methods

Below are some of the most common biofilm eradication methods used today:

Mechanical Removal

Scrubbing, brushing, or high-pressure spraying can break down biofilm on hard surfaces. This is commonly used in industries like food processing and water treatment.

Limitations:

• Labor-intensive

• Doesn’t fully eliminate microbial colonies

• Can damage delicate surfaces

Chemical Disinfectants

Chlorine, hydrogen peroxide, and enzymatic cleaners are widely used to remove biofilm from medical and industrial surfaces.

Limitations:

• Some biofilms resist even strong chemicals

• Can be hazardous to humans or the environment

• Often ineffective on deeply embedded biofilms

Antibiotic Treatments

In medical settings, antibiotics are used to treat biofilm-related infections, especially in devices like catheters or implants.

Limitations:

• Limited penetration into biofilm matrix

• Promotes antibiotic resistance

• Doesn’t prevent reformation of biofilm

Natural and Enzymatic Solutions

Enzymes and plant-based compounds are gaining popularity for those seeking natural ways to dissolve biofilms.

Limitations:

• Variable effectiveness

• Often slower acting

• May require repeated applications

Nanobubbles

Nanobubbles are ultra-small gas bubbles (typically <200 nanometers in diameter) suspended in water. Unlike regular bubbles, nanobubbles have unique properties that allow them to penetrate the biofilm matrix and destabilize it from within.

How Nanobubbles Work to Remove Biofilm

• Penetration: Due to their size, nanobubbles can infiltrate even dense biofilm layers.

• Oxidation: Some nanobubble systems generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) that help break down the biofilm matrix.

• Physical Disruption: The collapse of nanobubbles creates localized pressure that can detach biofilms from surfaces.

Advantages

• Chemical-free and non-toxic

• Effective on a wide range of surfaces

• Eco-friendly and sustainable

Limitations

• Still under active research in some industries

• Equipment and implementation costs may be high initially