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Microbial Extracellular Polymeric Substances

Characterization, Structure and Function

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Table of contents (13 chapters)

  1. Front Matter

    Pages I-XIV
  2. What are Bacterial Extracellular Polymeric Substances?

    • Jost Wingender, Thomas R. Neu, Hans-Curt Flemming
    Pages 1-19
  3. Extraction of EPS

    • Per H. Nielsen, Andreas Jahn
    Pages 49-72
  4. Biofilm Exopolysaccharides

    • Ian W. Sutherland
    Pages 73-92
  5. Exopolymers of Sulphate-Reducing Bacteria

    • Iwona B. Beech, Rudi C. Tapper
    Pages 119-126
  6. Function of EPS

    • Gideon M. Wolfaardt, John R. Lawrence, Darren R. Korber
    Pages 171-200
  7. Interaction Between Extracellular Polysaccharides and Enzymes

    • Jost Wingender, Karl-Erich Jaeger, Hans-Curt Flemming
    Pages 231-251
  8. Back Matter

    Pages 253-258

About this book

Microbial extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) are the key components for the aggregation of microorganisms in biofilms, flocs and sludge. They are composed of polysaccharides, proteins, nucleic acids, lipids and other biological macromolecules. EPS provide a highly hydrated gel matrix in which microbial cells can establish stable synergistic consortia. Cohesion and adhesion as well as morphology, structure, biological function and other properties such as mechanical stability, diffusion, sorption and optical properties of microbial aggregates are determined by the EPS matrix. Also, the protection of biofilm organisms against biocides is attributed to the EPS. Their matrix allows phase separation in biofiltration and is also important for the degradation of particulate material which is of great importance for the self purification processes in surface waters and for waste water treatment.

Editors and Affiliations

  • Dept. of Aquatic Microbiology, University of Duisburg and IWW Center for Water Research, Duisburg, Germany

    Jost Wingender, Hans-Curt Flemming

  • Dept. of Inland Water Research Magdeburg, UFZ Centre for Environmental Research Leipzig-Halle, Magdeburg, Germany

    Thomas R. Neu

Bibliographic Information

Buy it now

Buying options

eBook USD 84.99
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Available as PDF
  • Read on any device
  • Instant download
  • Own it forever
Softcover Book USD 109.99
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Compact, lightweight edition
  • Dispatched in 3 to 5 business days
  • Free shipping worldwide - see info

Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout

Other ways to access