The use of microelectrodes in biofilm research allows a better understanding of intrinsic biofilm processes. Little is known about mass transfer and substrate utilization in the boundary layer of biofilm systems. One possible description of mass transfer can be obtained by mass transfer coefficients, both on the basis of the stagnant film theory or with the Sherwood number. This approach is rather formal and not quite correct when the heterogeneity of the biofilm surface structure is taken into account. It could be shown that substrate loading is a major factor in the description of the development of the density. On the other hand, the time axis is an important factor which has to be considered when concentration profiles in biofilm systems are discussed. Finally, hydrodynamic conditions become important for the development of the biofilm surface when the Reynolds number increases above the range of 3000-4000.
