Characterization of a biofilm

What is a biofilm?

A biofilm is a community of microorganisms (bacteria, yeasts, fungi) organized in an extracellular matrix adhering to a surface. These complex structures, often formed in a humid environment, are resistant to antimicrobial agents and pose a significant risk to hygiene, food safety, and industrial processes.

Biofilms are ubiquitous in the food industry, the environment, industrial facilities, water treatment and even animal nutrition.

Why characterize a biofilm?

Analysis of a biofilm allows:

• Assess its microbial composition (bacteria, yeasts, molds)
• Determine its thickness, density, biological activity
• Measure its adhesion power to different materials
• Test the effectiveness of anti-biofilm formulations or cleaning protocols
• Better understand the mechanisms of formation, maturation or resistance

This data is essential for R&D, optimization of cleaning processes, validation of antimicrobial products or quality control of industrial surfaces.

Available analytical methods

YesWeLab offers a multi-technical approach depending on your objectives:

• Confocal fluorescence microscopy: 3D analysis of cell structure, thickness and viability
• Crystal violet staining: global quantification of biomass
• ATP-metry: evaluation of the biological activity of the biofilm
• DNA sequencing (NGS): fine identification of microbial species present
• Spectroscopy (FTIR, RAMAN): chemical characterization of the extracellular matrix
• Adhesion tests: study of the resistance of the biofilm on different supports (stainless steel, plastic, glass, etc.)

The analysis is carried out on surface samples, treated supports or liquid media.

Affected matrices

• Industrial surfaces in contact with liquids (pipes, equipment, tanks, production lines)
• Cleaning or disinfection systems
• Antimicrobial or natural formulations (essential oils, plant extracts)
• Process water, condensates, grey water
• Technical materials (ceramic, stainless steel, hydrophilic or hydrophobic plastics)

This service allows for a complete microbiological and physicochemical analysis of biofilms in production or laboratory testing contexts.

Industrial applications

• Assessment of contamination in agri-food production lines
• Validation of disinfection protocols or anti-biofilm products
• Study of surface colonization in water treatment systems
• R&D in antimicrobial materials or eco-designed cleaning agents
• Health monitoring of livestock farms and animal nutrition equipment

Why choose YesWeLab?

YesWeLab connects you to expert laboratories in surface microbiology and biofilms. Our partners are ISO 17025 or COFRAC accredited and specialize in:

• Industrial microbiology
• Environmental DNA sequencing (NGS)
• Antimicrobial performance testing
• Characterization of complex or mixed biofilms

Thanks to our digital platform, you can centralize your requests, track the progress of your analyses and access your results securely.

Need to characterize a biofilm to validate a formulation or secure a surface?

Entrust your project to YesWeLab for reliable, fast, and actionable results.
Add this service to your quote or contact our team for personalized support.