Invisible protective shields of microorganisms

Biofilms are everywhere, whether on our teeth, in sewage systems, or on medical implants. They are complex communities of microorganisms that attach themselves to surfaces and are surrounded by a protective layer of mucus. These structures are highly organized and have amazing protective mechanisms.

What exactly is a biofilm?

A biofilm is a collection of microorganisms, mainly bacteria, embedded in a self-produced matrix of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). This matrix consists mainly of polysaccharides, proteins, lipids, and DNA. It serves both to hold the microbial community together and to protect it.
Biofilms can form on both biological and non-living surfaces. Examples include tooth surfaces, contact lenses, water pipes, food packaging, and water tanks.

How does a biofilm form?

The formation of a biofilm proceeds in several phases and results in a cycle.

1. Adhesion:
Individual microorganisms attach themselves to a suitable surface via specialized proteins or structures such as pili.
2. Colonization:
The cells begin to divide and communicate via quorum sensing molecules to coordinate their behavior.
3. Matrix formation:
The microorganisms produce the EPS matrix, which stabilizes and protects the biofilm.
4. Maturation:
Complex three-dimensional structures develop. These have channels for nutrient transport, which are comparable to primitive tissue.
5. Detachment:
Parts of the biofilm or individual cells detach to colonize new locations.

What protective functions does the biofilm offer?

The EPS matrix is much more than just “slime.” It acts as a protective shield against external influences.

Bacteria in biofilm are often up to 1000 times more resistant to antibiotics than free-floating (planktonic) cells. Reasons for this include the limited penetration of active substances, altered metabolic states of the bacteria, and genetic adaptations.

• Protection from the immune system:
  Immune cells find it much more difficult to recognize and fight biofilm structures.
• Resistance to environmental stress:
  Biofilms offer protection against UV radiation, pH fluctuations, disinfectants, and dehydration.
• Communication and cooperation:
  Through quorum sensing, microorganisms in the biofilm can develop joint defense strategies.

Why are biofilms a problem?

Biofilms often form in industrial and domestic water pipes, where they adhere to the inner walls of the pipes. These biofilms are not only problematic from a hygienic point of view but also have technical and economic consequences.

On the one hand, they promote the growth of pathogens such as Legionella pneumophila or Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which can detach from the biofilm and spread through the water. At the same time, corrosion, pipe blockages, and increased energy consumption can occur as the flow is impeded. In addition, biofilms are difficult to remove because they are extremely resistant to certain disinfectants and many cleaning methods.



An often underestimated factor is water temperature: many microorganisms grow particularly well in the range of 20–50 °C, which is common in many hot water systems. Legionella bacteria in particular find optimal conditions here. In principle, temperatures above 60 °C kill germs, but the protective matrix of the biofilm can partially shield them from the heat. As a result, bacteria survive inside.

Summer heat as an additional risk

The problem can be exacerbated in summer. Standing water in rarely used pipes (e.g., schools, hotels, vacation homes) quickly heats up to critical temperatures in the pipes. These “warm zones” in the pipe system promote biofilm formation, especially if the water does not circulate for long periods of time. Legionella and other pathogenic germs can multiply rapidly in these warm, stagnant areas and be inhaled as aerosols the next time the water is used.

Conclusion: Biofilms – useful helpers with two faces

Not all biofilms are undesirable. In many natural and technical ecosystems, biofilms fulfill important tasks:


• Breakdown of organic pollutants in sewage treatment plants
• Promoting soil fertility and supporting plant growth
• Stabilizing the human intestinal flora

At the same time, however, certain biofilms can cause infections, material damage, or hygiene risks.

Hygienic safety ensured by Hydroliq WATER DISINFECTION Plus

Hydroliq Water Disinfection Plus offers an effective and sustainable solution for disinfecting drinking water and water pipes – without leaving any residues. It is easy to use, odorless, and can be easily integrated into existing systems. Our solution eliminates 99.99% of all germs, including Legionella. Continuous use breaks down biofilm and prevents recontamination. Hydroliq is approved for drinking water disinfection, certified (BAG, SVGW), and does not require any hazard symbols.




We would be happy to provide you with individual advice and ensure safe, germ-free water for you in the long term!

Get a no-obligation consultation now: Get in touch!

Ringworm is a highly contagious fungal skin disease that mainly affects young cattle. It occurs regularly on many farms and can not only impair animal welfare but also have economic consequences. We explain how ringworm develops, what conditions favor its growth, and how the fungus can be effectively and sustainably controlled with hypochlorous acid.

What is calf ringworm?

Ringworm (trichophytosis) is a skin infection caused by filamentous fungi that manifests itself in circular, hairless, and scaly patches, usually on the head, neck, or around the eyes. The disease is generally easy to identify, but in case of doubt, laboratory analysis can be used for clarification. The disease is highly contagious and can spread quickly within a herd. It is mainly transmitted through direct contact with animals, but also indirectly via contaminated objects such as drinking buckets, calf brushes, stable walls, or the clothing and hands of caregivers. Young animals with immature immune systems are particularly at risk. Humans can also become infected, which is why special care must be taken when handling affected animals.

Favorable conditions

Ringworm occurs mainly in the first months of life, when the animals’ immune systems are not yet fully developed.

The following factors increase the risk:


• Inadequate ventilation and high humidity
• Poor stable hygiene
• Stress caused by relocation or change of feed
• Lack of disinfection of drinking troughs, calf huts, and work materials

Good to know:
Adult cows are much less likely to develop ringworm, as they have already built up a certain immunity to the pathogens through previous infections or vaccinations.

Consequences for animals and farms

The skin changes themselves are usually not painful for the animals, but they weaken their immune system and make them more susceptible to other diseases.

Other possible consequences include:


• Increased risk of infection within the herd
• Additional care and longer rearing times
• Possible restrictions on the sale of animals
• Reduced leather quality due to scarring
• Risk of transmission to employees

What helps against calf ringworm?

Early detection and targeted action are crucial.

The most important measures are:


• Isolate affected animals to prevent spread
• Improve stable hygiene by regularly cleaning and disinfecting boxes, tools, and contact surfaces
• Thoroughly disinfect equipment such as calf pens, feeding buckets, and brushes
• Skin care for animals with suitable antifungal agents
• Vaccination is possible, either prophylactically or in already infected animals to shorten the duration of the disease

Sustainable solution with hypochlorous acid

Before (left) and after (right) several applications of Hydroliq ANIMAL

Hydroliq disinfection solutions are based on HOCl and offer effective and skin-friendly disinfection. Hypochlorous acid is highly effective against fungi, bacteria, spores, and viruses. It is ideal for many areas in the stable as well as for direct application to animals and the treatment of affected skin areas. Tests have shown that regular direct application of Hydroliq ANIMAL to animals achieves rapid improvement.

Conclusion

In many cases, ringworm can be prevented with consistent hygiene and targeted disinfection. Hydroliq ANIMAL helps farmers effectively control fungal infections and protect the health of their calves in the long term.

Get in touch at info@hydroliq.com | 041 259 90 00 or contact your sales representative directly for a no-obligation consultation.

Mold is not only an aesthetic problem, but can also cause serious health risks, especially in living spaces. It often remains undetected for a long time and spreads secretly in damp corners. But if you know the causes and act early, you can prevent major damage.

What is mold?

Molds are microscopic fungi that are widespread in nature. They mainly belong to the groups of ascomycetes and zygomycetes and reproduce through spores that float in the air. As soon as they have found a suitable surface, they settle. Indoors, they often appear as colored stains on walls, ceilings or furniture. Mold can also appear on food that is not stored properly or has expired.

How does mold develop?

The main cause of mold growth indoors is moisture. This can be caused by various factors:

• Condensation:
  When warm, moist air meets cold surfaces, condensation can form, which encourages mold.
• Building defects:
  Leaky roofs, cracks in the walls or a lack of thermal insulation can allow moisture into the building.
• Inadequate ventilation:
  Moisture from cooking, showering or drying laundry can accumulate if there is insufficient ventilation.
• Water damage:
  Leaks or flooding lead to increased moisture, which promotes mold growth.

Areas with high humidity such as bathrooms, kitchens and cellars are particularly at risk.

Why is mold dangerous?

Mold can cause serious health problems and poses a considerable risk, particularly to vulnerable groups.

• Allergies:
  Mold spores in the air can trigger reactions such as sneezing, coughing, skin rashes or watery eyes.
• Respiratory diseases:
  Prolonged exposure to mold can promote chronic complaints such as dry cough or asthma, especially in people who are prone to these health problems.
• Mycotoxins:
  Some types of mold form toxic substances known as mycotoxins. These can be harmful if inhaled or in contact with skin, and may lead to headaches, tiredness, or difficulty concentrating.

Children, the elderly and people with a weakened immune system are especially at risk.

How can you combat mold?

When combating mold, it is important both to remove the visible infestation and to eliminate the causes:

• Small areas:
  BIf discovered early, superficial mold on tiles, walls or window seals can be tackled with special mold removers or disinfectants such as our Hydroliq PROFESSIONAL. The great advantage of our disinfectant is that it kills both mold and bacteria and does not contain any harmful substances. Hydroliq PROFESSIONAL is therefore even suitable for sensitive areas such as children’s rooms or kitchens. Any remaining visible mold stains (remnants of the killed mold) can then be removed with conventional cleaning agents.
• Larger infestations:
  If mold has spread over a large area or has penetrated deep into walls and materials, a specialist should be called in. They can reliably identify the cause and carry out safe, sustainable remediation.
• Safety measures:
  To avoid contact with mold spores, protective gloves, breathing masks and suitable protective clothing should be worn when removing mold.

How can you prevent mold?

Prevention is the most effective way to avoid mould growth.

• Correct ventilation:
  Regular airing helps to remove moist air and reduce humidity.
• Heating:
  A constant room temperature prevents walls from cooling down and thus the formation of condensation.
• Furniture placement:
  Furniture should not be placed directly against external walls to ensure air circulation.
• Minimize sources of moisture:
  If possible, do not dry laundry in living rooms and ensure adequate ventilation when cooking and showering.
• Building and renovation measures:
  In new buildings or renovations, attention should be paid to good thermal insulation and effective moisture protection.

Conclusion

Mold indoors is not just a visual problem, but a serious health and structural problem. Knowledge of the causes, especially moisture and inadequate ventilation, enables targeted prevention and early intervention. A conscious approach to indoor climate, structural substance and hygiene is crucial.

Whether in your own home or a rented apartment – effective mold prevention requires attention and targeted action in everyday life. If the infestation proves to be complex, professional remediation is essential to avoid lasting damage. If you are well informed and take action at an early stage, you not only protect the building fabric, but above all the health of all residents in the long term.

Pathogens are everywhere – in the air, on surfaces and in food. Most of them are harmless, but some can cause serious illnesses. Especially in times of flu epidemics or pandemics, we are increasingly reliant on protecting ourselves against the various ways of transmission of germs.

Droplet infection & airborne transmission:
Invisible dangers in the air

Droplet infections and airborne germs are among the most common transmission routes. They occur when infected people release tiny droplets containing pathogens into the air when coughing, sneezing, speaking or breathing. These droplets can then be inhaled by other people or absorbed through the mucous membranes (such as the nose or mouth). So-called aerosols – tiny droplets that can float in the air for hours and fly long distances – pose a particular danger.

This type of transmission is often observed in diseases such as tuberculosis, measles, influenza or COVID-19.

How can you protect yourself?

• Keep your safety distance
• Wear a face mask
• Ventilate regularly
• Wash your hands properly

Contact & smear infection:
Germs on surfaces and through direct contact

Germs can be transmitted through direct physical contact, but also through indirect contact with contaminated surfaces (e.g. door handles, handrails or cell phones). This type of transmission often occurs unconsciously: if you touch a contaminated surface and then touch your face, the germs get directly onto the mucous membranes (e.g. in the eye, nose or mouth).

This type of transmission is particularly common with pathogens such as noroviruses or influenza viruses.

How can you protect yourself?

• Frequently wash your hands with soap
• Avoid touching your face
• Clean and disinfect surfaces
• Use disinfectants

Blood & tissue infections:
Transmission through bodily fluids

Pathogens such as viruses or bacteria can enter the body through direct contact with blood or other bodily fluids. This can happen through unprotected sexual intercourse, contact with infected blood or through the exchange of bodily fluids such as saliva or sweat. Pathogens can also be transmitted through insect bites – for example by mosquitoes that transmit malaria or the Zika virus.

Diseases such as hepatitis B&C, HIV or syphilis can be transmitted this way.

How can you protect yourself?

• Wear protective clothing (in case of contact with blood or body fluids)
• Use clean piercing and tattooing tools / needles
• Use insect repellent (especially in risk areas)

Contaminated food and water:
Dangers in the kitchen

Germs such as salmonella, E. coli or hepatitis A can enter the body through contaminated food or water and cause gastrointestinal illnesses. This type of transmission is often referred to as fecal-oral transmission and occurs primarily in regions with poor hygienic conditions or inadequate water treatment. However, outbreaks can also occur in Western countries with good hygiene standards due to improperly stored food or a lack of hygiene during preparation.

Contaminated food or water can cause diarrhea, hemolytic uremic syndrome, hepatitis A, typhoid fever or listeriosis.

How can you protect yourself?

• Food:
  prepare hygienically, wash well, store properly, cook completely
• Drinking water:
  fresh, clean, reliable sources
• Avoid undercooked food:
  raw meat, eggs, seafood
• The following rule has proven itself in unsafe hygiene conditions:
  Cook it, peel it or forget it!

Conclusion

As pathogens are transmitted in many different ways, it is important to know the right protective measures. Good hygiene, conscious handling of food, wearing protective masks and avoiding close contact in risk situations are important measures for staying healthy.

Prevention is the most effective protection against infection – be vigilant and take care of your body and the environment!

Biocides are chemical or biological agents used to combat harmful organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, insects or rodents. They are used in many areas of everyday life, for example in disinfectants, wood preservatives or insecticides. The term “biocide” comes from the Greek and Latin: “bios” means life, “caedere” means to kill.

What are biocides used for?

Biocides play a crucial role in protecting health, hygiene and the preservation of materials.

Some important areas of application are:



• Hygiene and health protection: Disinfectants are used to eliminate pathogens on surfaces, in water or in the air and thus prevent infections.
• Material protection: Wood preservatives prevent the infestation of timber by fungi or insects and thus extend the service life of buildings and furniture.
• Pest control: The use of insecticides and rodenticides is an effective method of controlling pests such as insects and rodents. These animals can cause considerable damage to supplies or crops.
• Drinking & bathing water treatment: Biocides can be used to disinfect water to prevent the spread of pathogens.

How are biocides used?

The use of biocides can vary depending on the type of product or intended use. It is very important to always observe the instructions for use, safety regulations and hazard symbols. In this way, people and the environment can be protected.

General information on correct handling of biocides:



• Read the instructions for use: Read the labels and product information carefully before use to know the correct dosage and application method.
• Wear protective equipment: Depending on the product, it may be necessary to wear gloves, goggles or respiratory protection.
• Protect the environment: Many biocides should not be released into the environment. Residues and packaging must therefore be disposed of properly.
• Observe the regulations: In Switzerland, the Ordinance on Biocidal Products (OBP) regulates the use and placing on the market of biocidal products. Only approved and tested biocides may be used.

Authorization process for biocides:

Biocides can pose potential risks to human health and the environment and are therefore subject to strict testing and authorization procedures

In the EU and Switzerland, there are various regulations governing the handling of biocides:



• Evaluation of active substances: Before a biocide is approved, the active substance is subjected to a detailed scientific assessment. This examines efficacy, toxicity and possible environmental effects.
• Product-specific authorization: Manufacturers are obliged to apply for authorization for each product. This application must urgently demonstrate that the biocidal product meets the required safety and efficacy criteria.
• Labeling: Biocides must be labeled on the packaging in accordance with the applicable regulations. This serves to ensure that consumers receive all important information and information on risks.
• Regular monitoring: Even products that have already been approved are constantly monitored. This ensures that the biocides comply with the latest scientific findings and legal requirements.

Conclusion:

Biocides play an important role in protecting against harmful organisms and contribute to hygiene, health and material preservation. They help to prevent diseases and control pest infestations in various sectors such as agriculture, industry and healthcare.

Nevertheless, biocides can be harmful to the environment and health. Incorrect application or the use of unauthorized products can endanger water, soil and beneficial organisms. In addition, improper use can encourage the development of resistance and reduce the effectiveness of biocides. They should therefore be used responsibly and, whenever possible, more environmentally friendly alternatives should be considered.

The redox value (also known as redox potential) is a key chemical parameter that determines the effectiveness of disinfectants. It describes the ratio between REDuction (electron uptake) and OXidation (electron release) in a solution. The redox value is measured in millivolts (mV) and indicates how strongly a solution has an oxidizing or reducing effect. A high value indicates a strongly oxidizing environment, which is ideal for destroying microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses and fungi.

Substances with a high redox potential, such as ozone or hypochlorous acid, remove electrons from other molecules. This oxidation destabilizes chemical bonds and destroys the cell structures of microorganisms, which leads to their destruction.

• High redox values (> +650 mV): Strongly oxidizing, suitable for killing microorganisms.
• Low or negative redox values: Reducing environment, not very suitable for disinfection purposes.

The redox value therefore plays a decisive role in disinfection.

Why is the redox value important for disinfection?

The killing of microorganisms is based on a simple but effective principle: oxidizing agents with a high redox potential remove electrons from the cell structures of the germs. This damages cell membranes, enzymes and DNA. The microorganisms can no longer maintain their vital functions and die.

A high redox potential indicates how strong the oxidizing effect of a solution is. A higher voltage means faster and more effective germ elimination.

Examples of the dependence of disinfection on the redox value:



• At a redox value above +750 mV, most bacteria, viruses and fungi are quickly killed.
• If the value falls below +650 mV, the disinfection effect decreases drastically.

How is the redox value measured?

Special electrodes that measure the electrical voltage in a solution are used to monitor the redox value. These devices enable precise control and ensure that the solution is always within the optimum range.

In practice, the following redox values are maintained depending on the application:



• Drinking water disinfection: +650 to +850 mV
• Swimming pool disinfection: +750 to +850 mV
• Industrial and food hygiene: over +800 mV for maximum effectiveness

The role of hypochlorous acid (HOCl)

Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is an efficient disinfectant, which is characterized by its dual property as a strong oxidizing agent and good compatibility for humans, the environment and animals. With a high redox potential, HOCl destroys both cell membranes and proteins of microorganisms within seconds. Its advantage lies in its high effectiveness at low concentrations. All Hydroliq products have a redox value of at least 800 mV.

Conclusion:

The redox value is a decisive parameter for the effectiveness of disinfectant solutions. It provides information about the ability of the solution to destroy microorganisms quickly and efficiently through oxidation. By selecting suitable oxidizing agents, optimizing the pH value and controlling the concentration, the redox value can be specifically increased and kept stable.

Hypochlorous acid is an excellent example of the practical application of the redox value in disinfection. Thanks to its high redox potential, it enables powerful yet gentle disinfection that meets even the highest hygiene requirements.