Engineered topographies and hydrodynamics in relation to biofouling control-a review

Area of Science:

• Surface Science
• Microbiology
• Fluid Dynamics

Background:

• Biofouling, the growth of microorganisms on submerged surfaces, impedes underwater structures, vessels, and medical devices.
• Surface modification is a promising non-toxic strategy to combat biofouling.
• This involves altering surface topography and roughness with nano- to micro-structured patterns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in surface modification and hydrodynamic analysis for biofouling control.
• To comprehensively describe the biofouling process, control techniques, and current research.
• To explore the potential of patterned surfaces as physical deterrents and microfluidic environments.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on biofouling mechanisms and control strategies.
• Analysis of different biofilms under various hydrodynamic conditions.
• Explanation of biomimetic surfaces, super-hydrophobicity, microorganism locomotion, and nano/micro-hydrodynamics.

Main Results:

• Nano- and micro-structured patterned surfaces can control biofouling to varying degrees.
• Microtopography influences attachment via hydrodynamics and cell placement.
• Nanotopography affects physicochemical forces and macromolecular conditioning.

Conclusions:

• Understanding the precise mechanisms of patterned surface biofouling control requires further investigation.
• Patterned surfaces can act as physical deterrents against fouling organisms.
• Active microfluidic environments can inhibit initial bacterial settlement.