Analysis of anaerobic biofilms

Abstract
Biofilms from anaerobic fixed film reactors (anaerobic filter, upflow anaerobic sludge blanket, and anaerobic fluidized bed) developed under identical experimental conditions, were characterized in terms of chemical, microbiological, and morphological composition. Using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), the nature of the biofilms are described. Factor 420 analysis showed the fluidized bed to have the highest level of the coenzyme. However, factor 420 levels were not related to COD removal or gas production. Large amounts of inorganic matter were found in each of the biofilms.