A biofilm is a specialized structure formed by microorganisms adhering to solid surfaces and secreting extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) to encapsulate themselves during their growth process. It is composed of microbial cells and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). It possesses a complex three-dimensional structure with pores and channels. It protects microorganisms, improves their ability to obtain nutrients, and increases their drug resistance.

 Sites Where Biofilms Are Most Likely to Form

Biofilms are prone to forming and causing serious harm in the pharmaceutical, food, dairy, and medical industries. Fantongjing's analysis of biofilm removal cases in the pharmaceutical industry indicates that the following links and equipment are prone to biofilm formation:

1. Water System Equipment

This includes the pipes, storage tanks, and filters of purified water systems, as well as the pipes, storage tanks, and filters of water for injection systems.

2. Fermentation Tanks

Fermentation tanks are key equipment used for microbial fermentation in pharmaceutical plants. During the fermentation process, the tanks are rich in nutrients, have a suitable temperature, and are high in humidity, providing excellent conditions for microbial growth. Microorganisms are prone to forming biofilms on the inner walls of the fermentation tanks, agitators, temperature sensors, and other surfaces.

3. Filling Pipes and Valves

Filling pipes and valves come into direct contact with pharmaceuticals. If not thoroughly cleaned or disinfected, microorganisms can easily attach to their surfaces and form biofilms.

4. Filling Pumps

Filling pumps have complex internal structures, making them prone to residual pharmaceuticals and cleaning fluids, creating favorable conditions for microbial growth. Microorganisms forming biofilms on the surfaces of filling pumps can affect pump performance and pharmaceutical filling accuracy.

5. Air Conditioning and Ventilation Systems

Pharmaceutical factories' air conditioning and ventilation systems are used to maintain cleanliness, temperature, and humidity in the production environment. Dust and microorganisms easily accumulate on the surfaces of air ducts and filters, and under suitable conditions, biofilms can form.

Biofilm contamination can disrupt pharmaceutical production, leading to reduced production or substandard product quality. This not only impacts a company's reputation but also poses a serious threat to its survival and development.

II. Fantong Biofilm Removal Services

Biofilm formation is a complex process. Removal requires comprehensive consideration of multiple factors and a combination of methods. Fantong Biotechnology has developed VT-GHP biofilm removal technology to address the unique characteristics of biofilm formation in pharmaceutical plants. This technology combines physical and chemical methods to effectively disrupt the cell structure and extracellular polymers of microorganisms, thereby killing the microorganisms and removing the biofilm without damaging equipment or facilities.

Of course, the best way to prevent the occurrence of biofilms is prevention. This includes optimizing fluid dynamics during the design process, strengthening environmental hygiene management during daily production, and ensuring the proper cleaning and disinfection of equipment and facilities such as tanks and pipelines.