Microbiological factors of the formation of iron-containing minerals

Abstract

In the present study, the process of biofilm formation in iron-containing aqueous medium in the presence of different organic compounds with different bioavailability (yeast extract, peptone, and humic substances) is considered. Investigations conducted using a scanning electronic microscope and X-ray diffraction analysis allow us to reveal the presence of biologically produced goethite (α-FeOOH) in the crystal structure. It was supposed that the supply of surface waters contaminated with organic compounds to ironcontaining underground waters could increase the risk of plugging aquifer pore space by biogenic iron-containing minerals.