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3D finite element analysis of biofilm growth considering nutrient diffusion
Author(s) -
Bolea Albero Antonio,
Bertsch Christine,
Böl Markus
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
pamm
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 1617-7061
DOI - 10.1002/pamm.201010134
Subject(s) - biofilm , finite element method , diffusion , work (physics) , computer science , order (exchange) , mathematics , biological system , mechanical engineering , engineering , structural engineering , geology , physics , thermodynamics , biology , paleontology , finance , bacteria , economics
There exist a lot of models that are able to describe the behavior of biofilm systems. They can be classified into (1) analytical models, (2) pseudo‐analytical models, and (3) numerical models. Based on the numerous advantages of numerical models in this work a 3D mechanical biofilm model is discussed and implemented into a finite element program in order to simulate growth effects coupled with the nutrient diffusion through the biofilm. Based on three‐dimensional biofilm structures, numerical examples are presented in order to show the ability of the new modeling approach. (© 2010 Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)