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

Yu Bai, Hui Wang () and Muhong Wu
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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

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 11, 1-13

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.

Keywords: gravel-bed; hydrodynamic; numerical modeling; biofilm (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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