Biofilm is a persistent and often overlooked threat in critical environments — from food processing plants and industrial water systems to healthcare facilities and animal operations. These complex microbial structures resist traditional cleaning and disinfection methods, posing a major challenge to hygiene and compliance.
At Selective Micro Technologies, we provide a better solution. Our ultra-pure chlorine dioxide product, Selectrocide®, is engineered to eliminate biofilm at the source — even where other disinfectants fail.
What Is Biofilm — and Why Does It Matter?
Biofilms are structured communities of bacteria and other microorganisms that adhere to surfaces and produce a sticky, protective layer. They thrive in moist, hard-to-reach areas like waterlines, tanks, food-contact equipment, and drains.
These microbial colonies are extremely resistant to conventional cleaning agents and are responsible for:
- Persistent contamination and foul odors
- Reduced water flow and system efficiency
- Accelerated equipment degradation
- Risk of infection or product recall in regulated environments
According to the NIH, over 80% of chronic infections are associated with biofilms — illustrating just how difficult they are to remove using standard methods.
(Source: NIH, National Institutes of Health)
Why Traditional Disinfectants Fall Short
Common disinfectants such as bleach, hydrogen peroxide, and quaternary ammonium compounds often fail to penetrate the biofilm’s protective matrix. While they may kill surface-level microbes, the underlying structure survives — allowing biofilm to regrow quickly and spread further.
Why Selectrocide® Is Superior for Biofilm Removal
Selectrocide, powered by ultra-pure chlorine dioxide (ClO₂), offers distinct advantages over conventional disinfectants:
- Penetrates Deep Into Biofilm: Chlorine dioxide is a neutral, gaseous molecule that diffuses easily through the biofilm matrix and reaches embedded pathogens.
- Kills Resistant Pathogens: Delivers a 6-log (99.9999%) kill rate against bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores.
- Non-Corrosive, Non-Chlorinating: Safer for equipment and operators than chlorine bleach.
- Effective at Low Concentrations: Powerful enough for hard-to-kill biofilms, yet safe for sensitive surfaces.
Backed by Broad Regulatory Approvals
Selectrocide is one of the few disinfectants that meets the regulatory requirements for a wide range of applications:
- EPA-registered for use on food-contact surfaces, potable water systems, healthcare environments, and more
- FDA and USDA-compliant for food and beverage processing
- NSF-listed for drinking water system use
Unlike many generic chlorine dioxide products, Selectrocide is supported by extensive third-party testing and meets strict EPA purity standards for safe and effective disinfection.
Industries That Rely on Biofilm Control
Biofilm formation is a cross-industry concern. Selectrocide is used in:
- Food & Beverage Processing – For drain and equipment sanitation, bottling lines, and more
- Industrial Water Systems – To control biofilm in pipelines, tanks, and cooling towers
- Healthcare Facilities – For high-level disinfection in sinks, drains, and sensitive equipment
- Agriculture & Livestock – In waterlines and misting systems to improve animal health and system hygiene
Conclusion
Biofilms are more than a cleaning issue — they’re a risk to safety, performance, and compliance. With its unmatched ability to penetrate and eliminate biofilm at a microbial level, Selectrocide® is the chlorine dioxide solution of choice for industries that can't afford contamination.
Looking to eliminate biofilm at the source?
Call us at 855-256-8299 or email inquiry@selectivemicro.com to request a free sample or speak with one of our technical specialists.