Results Search Electronic Theses and Dissertations (ETDs)

A three dimensional finite element model of biofilm subjected to fluid flow and its application to predicting detachment potential: Author: Gammelgard, Peter Norman; Date: 2006-08-15; Program: Civil Engineering; Abstract: Microbial biofouling of wetted surfaces can adversely impact the hydrodynamic performance of pressurized conduits. These impacts are due, in part, to the viscoelastic material properties of biofilm. Of particular interest is the response of biofilm to changing hydrodynamic conditions and its effect on potential for biofilm removal. The goal of this research was two fold; 1) to develop a three dimensional numerical model, incorporating the viscoelastic material description of biofilm, to simulate the response of biofilm to varying hydrodynamic conditions and 2) use this model to identify behavi...; Download File | View full details

Quantifying the viscoelastic properties of treated and untreated Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus epidermidis biofilms using a rheological creep analysis: Author: Sutton, Michael Philip; Date: 2008-05-15; Program: Environmental Engineering; Abstract: Microbial biofilms are quite difficult to kill and control, and present many problems to industry and medicine. The ability to alter the mechanical properties of biofilms could aid in the control of biofilm. The goal of this research project was to develop techniques for measuring the mechanical properties of biofilms so that the effects of chemical treatments could be assessed. Constitutive material models were developed and applied to assist in this effort to quantify the effects. Biofilms are viscoelastic in nature, therefore, rheological testing techniques were utilized for this research. ...; Download File | View full details