Surface Modification of Polypropylene with Alkoxysilane Resin and Its Biofilm Prevention Effect

Biofilms are slime-like aggregates formed when bacteria secrete extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), enveloping themselves in a protective matrix. These structures primarily consist of water and EPS (including polysaccharides, proteins, nucleic acids, and bacterial cells. Forming biofilms on material surfaces leads to degradation, reduced mechanical performance, and operational issues in various industries, particularly in water treatment facilities. In these environments, biofilms contribute to water contamination, accelerated metal corrosion, and foul odors. In this study, polypropylene- a material commonly used in water treatment systems processed via extrusion molding, and its surface was coated with alkoxysilane resin and antimicrobial silver. The objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of this surface treatment in inhibiting biofilm formation.