Assessment of Biofilm Growth on Microplastics in Freshwaters Using a Passive Flow-Through System

Biofilms that colonize on the surface of microplastics (MPs) in freshwaters may pose a potential health risk. This study examined factors that influence MP-associated biofilm growth, including polymer type, degree of weathering, and source water quality. Weathered MPs produced in-lab were employed in biofilm trials conducted on site using a passive flow-through system with raw water at drinking water treatment facility intakes. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) was used to quantify biofilm abundance; biofilm composition was assessed via metagenomic sequencing. Biofilm growth was observed on all polymer types examined and most prevalent on polyvinyl chloride (PVC), where ATP levels were 6 to 12 times higher when compared to other polymers. Pathogen-containing species including Salmonella enterica and Escherichia coli were present on all polymers with relative abundance up to 13.7%. S. enterica was selectively enriched on weathered MPs in specific water matrices. These findings support the need to research the potential accumulation of pathogenic organisms on microplastic surfaces.