Characterization of biofilm components using a fiber optic spectrometer

A simple technique for the optical characterization and detection of early stages of biofilm is presented. A bacterial biofilm was developed in a microcell, consisting of of two glass slides and the biofilm between the slides. This technique allowed the measurement of biofilm thickness and refractive index of the medium as a function of position and time. Using a sensititive broad bandgap foil as surface, the early stage of biofilm formation was investigated in a simple reflectivity measurement using a fiber optic spectrometer. The optical results were compared with the measurements of confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM). The fiber optic spectrometer technique was suitable for the detection of low bacterial densities (10⁴ cm^-2).