Chlorine dioxide in seawater for fouling control and post-disinfection in potable waterworks Original Research Article

Bio-fouling refers to the undesirable accumulation of a biotic deposit on a surface. This consists of an organic film composed by micro-organisms embedded in a polymeric matrix of their own making. Complex fouling deposits, like those found in industrial environments, often consist of bio-films in intimate association with inorganic particles, corrosion products and macro-fouling organisms. The article focuses on the possibility to minimize the problems related to micro and macro-fouling in once-through cooling systems and desalination plant by shot or continuous injection of chlorine dioxide into the seawater at the intake. A special on line monitoring instrument, installed after chlorine dioxide injection point, permits to check the fouling growth due to marine micro-organism and, in the meantime, the residual of chlorine dioxide.