Influence of the intrinsic characteristics of mortars on biofouling by Klebsormidium flaccidum
Résumé
The goal of this study was to elucidate the influence of the intrinsic properties of roughness, porosity, and surface pH on the susceptibility of mortars to biodegradation by phototrophic microorganisms. An accelerated fouling test was performed allowing a periodic sprinkling of an algae suspension on sample surfaces. The green alga Klebsormidium flaccidum was chosen due to its representativeness and facility in culturing. The biofouling of sample surfaces was evaluated by means of image analysis and color measurement. Two porosities, three roughnesses, and two surface pHs were examined. The colonization by algae of sample surfaces was not influenced by porosity because of the specific conditions of testing that led to a constant high level of moistening of mortar samples. The roughness, in contrast, played an important role in biological colonization. A rougher surface facilitates the attachment of algal cells and so favors the extension of algae. The surface pH was the most important parameter. A lower surface pH accelerated considerably the development of algae on the samples surface.-
Domaines
Génie des procédés| Origine | Fichiers produits par l'(les) auteur(s) |
|---|