ABSTRACT
Biofilm colonization is a common problem along in many different environments due to the ubiquity of microorganisms and their low-demanding growth conditions. There are certain conditions regarding flow dynamics, anchoring sites, nutrients and media characteristics, under which biofilm formation and development is favored. This chapter reviews the state-of-the-art methods for impedimetric detection of biofilms and their monitorization. Over the last years there are many new investigations on this subject using different technologies. The chapter presents a comparison of the most relevant works in this field is in order to highlight the most interesting advances and methodologies. Most importantly, a comparison between direct detection methods for bacterial cells and biofilm development monitoring are discussed. Conclusions drawn from this analysis would help the development and implementation of new in situ detection systems improving quality, efficiency and security in many different environments.
