The importance of biofilms in microbial deterioration of constructional materials

Constructional materials, such as concrete, stone, wood, plastic, painted surfaces and metal, are colonized by bacteria, algae and fungi, which form biofilms on the surfaces acceleranting deteriotion of the structure. The mechanisms of such deterioration, the major microbial genera involved some and of factors which can affect the degree of colonization and attack are discussed. The major factor determining microbial growth on constructional materials is moisture and the importance of correct design of structures to avoid the ingress of water is pointed out.