title: A constant-depth laboratory model film fermentor.
abstract: A laboratory model constant-depth film fermentor was developed. Film grew on the surface of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) plugs and was limited to a predetermined depth by mechanically removing excess film. Six film-forming organisms were isolated from river water and used to assess the operating characteristics of the fermentor. Film accumulation was logarithmic, and a steady state was maintained. Electron micrographs show early film development. The fermentor enables film to be grown on any substratum and allows discrete, reproducible, and representative samples to be taken.
authors.affiliation: Department of Microbiology, University College Cardiff, Newport Road, Cardiff CF2 1TA, United Kingdom.
authors.forename: A C
authors.initials: AC
authors.lastname: Peters
authors.forename: J W
authors.initials: JW
authors.lastname: Wimpenny