3.4 Implications
Our results show that the computational model can predict the
deformation of biofilms under fluid flow. Biofilms often are spatially
heterogeneous in morphology and mechanical properties, which makes the
prediction of their mechanical behavior more complex. Moreover, the
biofilm boundary is also complex and influences the response. In our
research, we studied a synthetic biofilm and a real (homogenized)
biofilm. Future studies should address real biofilms with greater
mechanical heterogeneity, and more complex geometries. Such studies
could help clarify when the average mechanical properties are suitable
for predicting deformation, and when variable properties are needed.
Moreover, effects of complex boundaries should be addressed.
The PF model’s ability to simulate large deformations, and its
versatility with respect to the type of constitutive equations and
mechanical properties, makes it useful for a wide range of problems. It
also could be expanded to include biofilm growth, allowing the
assessment of deformation under timescales where growth could be
significant. It also could include multiple phases within the biofilm
matrix, such as voids or solid precipitates, or spatially variable
mechanical properties. The model would be ideal to study the effect of
biofilm disruptors, which diffuse into the biofilm and weaken the EPS
matrix, on biofilm removal.
A weakness of the model is that the numerical instability of Oldroyd-B
constitutive equation could limit its use for higher velocity ranges and
a larger relaxation time scales. However, some of these computational
problems could be reduced using sharp interface and extra stabilization
methods. Finally, detailed 3D simulations under complex flow regimes
would require large computational recourses.