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Numerical Modeling of Biofilm–Flow Dynamics in Gravel-Bed Rivers: A Framework for Sustainable Restoration

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  • Yu Bai

    (Nanxun Innovation Institute, Zhejiang University of Water Resources and Electric Power, Hangzhou 310000, China)

  • Hui Wang

    (Nanxun Innovation Institute, Zhejiang University of Water Resources and Electric Power, Hangzhou 310000, China)

  • Muhong Wu

    (Qingyuan County Water Resources Bureau, Hangzhou 310000, China)

Abstract

This study investigates biofilm–flow interactions in gravel-bed rivers using a novel numerical model. Traditional hydrodynamic models often overlook biofilm-induced roughness coupling, prompting the development of a mesoscopic Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM) framework that dynamically links biofilm thickness to equivalent roughness. Key insights include a dual-phase mechanism: moderate biofilm growth reduces hydraulic resistance by smoothing gravel pores, while excessive growth increases resistance via flow obstruction. Validated against 65-day flume experiments, the model accurately predicted biomass (ash-free dry mass) and velocity profiles. Current limitations involve reliance on empirical biofilm formulas, lack of natural river validation (non-uniform substrates, dynamic flows), and computational barriers in 3D large-scale simulations. Future directions include integrating biogeochemical factors (temperature, nutrients), multiscale microbial-morphology frameworks, and GPU-accelerated high-resolution modeling.

Suggested Citation

  • Yu Bai & Hui Wang & Muhong Wu, 2025. "Numerical Modeling of Biofilm–Flow Dynamics in Gravel-Bed Rivers: A Framework for Sustainable Restoration," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(11), pages 1-13, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:11:p:4905-:d:1665209
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Cundong Xu & Junjiao Tian & Zijin Liu & Rongrong Wang & Guoxia Wang, 2023. "Three-dimensional Reverse Modeling and Hydraulic Analysis of the Intake Structure of Pumping Stations on Sediment-laden Rivers," Water Resources Management: An International Journal, Published for the European Water Resources Association (EWRA), Springer;European Water Resources Association (EWRA), vol. 37(1), pages 537-555, January.
    2. Labiod, C. & Godillot, R. & Caussade, B., 2007. "The relationship between stream periphyton dynamics and near-bed turbulence in rough open-channel flow," Ecological Modelling, Elsevier, vol. 209(2), pages 78-96.
    3. Mojtaba Aghajani Delavar & Junye Wang, 2021. "Lattice Boltzmann Method in Modeling Biofilm Formation, Growth and Detachment," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(14), pages 1-23, July.
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