Rapid Formation of Bioaggregates and Morphology Transition to Biofilm Streamers Induced by Pore-Throat Flows

Rapid Formation of Bioaggregates and Morphology Transition to Biofilm Streamers Induced by Pore-Throat Flows

Sang Hyun Lee, Eleonora Secchi, and Peter K. Kang

Biomass in porous media is commonly found as aggregates, which strongly affect the physical and biochemical environment of porous media systems. However, the underlying biophysical mechanisms that cause bioaggregation remain unclear. Here, we elucidate the formation and shaping mechanisms of bioaggregates in porous media. First, pore throat structure is shown to cause unique flow structures that lead to an enhanced biomass attachment at the pore throat. Further, bioaggregates show a change in mechanical behavior from elastic to viscous when critical shear stress is reached. This critical shear stress is shown to determine the morphology transition from rounded to streamer-like bioaggregates.

PNAS 120 (14) e2204466120 (2023)
Corresponding Author: Peter Kang

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