E-Thesis 235 views 57 downloads
Understanding the sanitising efficacy of a new, environmentally friendly hot tub water treatment product, eco3spa / MICHAEL CHAU
Swansea University Author: MICHAEL CHAU
Abstract
Infrequent cleaning increases the risk of biofilms being formed on hot tub surfaces and pipes by Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This is aided by inappropriate use of biofilm control agents which promote antimicrobial resistance. This presents a challenge for water sanitation using biof...
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Swansea, Wales, UK
2023
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| Institution: | Swansea University |
| Degree level: | Master of Research |
| Degree name: | MSc by Research |
| Supervisor: | van Keulen, Geertje., Tizaoui, Chedly. and Phillips, Christopher. |
| URI: | https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa63654 |
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| Abstract: |
Infrequent cleaning increases the risk of biofilms being formed on hot tub surfaces and pipes by Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This is aided by inappropriate use of biofilm control agents which promote antimicrobial resistance. This presents a challenge for water sanitation using biofilm prevention and removal products.This study analysed the efficacy of an environmentally friendly 3-step biofilm prevention and removal product designed for hot tubs called eco3spa. Eco3spa contains Active Oxygen and a water conditioner which was assessed for growth and biofilm prevention properties. Eco3spa biofilm remover was tested in combination with Active Oxygen for biofilm removal properties.E. coli K12 and P. aeruginosa PA01 cultures were grown and biofilms formed under static conditions at 37oC, normal operating temperature and maintenance temperatures of 25oC. Various product concentrations were tested for growth and biofilm prevention from pH 5.2-8. Pre-formed biofilms were treated with biofilm removal products before subjection to dynamic forces to mimic the flushing of water and function of jets in hot tubs.Results revealed that recommended concentrations of Active Oxygen prevent growth and biofilm formation of E. coli and P. aeruginosa without losing efficacy from pH 5.2 to 8. Addition of the water conditioner does not enhance Active Oxygen activity in preventing growth and biofilm formation. Furthermore, Active Oxygen kills E. coli within 5 minutes and chemical stability is maintained for at least 7 days. Light and fluorescent microscopy illustrated that Active Oxygen in combination with the water conditioner may lead to viable but non-culturable cells.This study demonstrates the sanitising efficacy of eco3spa in hot tub environments where efficacy of Active Oxygen is maintained over a defined pH range. Therefore, the industrial sponsor has been provided with more insights into the sanitising efficacy of eco3spa which promotes a water treatment product with benefits over chlorine. |
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| Keywords: |
Active Oxygen, hot tub, chlorine, , water treatment, disinfectant, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa |
| College: |
Faculty of Science and Engineering |