Non-Invasive Measurement, Mathematical Simulation and In Situ Detection of Biofilm Evolution in Porous Media: A Review

The development of biofilms and the related changes in porous media in the subsurface cannot be directly observed and evaluated. The primary reason that the mechanism of biofilm clogging in porous media cannot be clearly demonstrated is due to the opacity and structural complexity of three-dimensional pore space. Interest in exploring methods to overcome this limitation has been increasing. In the first part of this review, we introduce the underlying characteristics of biofilm in porous media. Then, we summarize two approaches, non-invasive measurement methods and mathematical simulation strategies, for studying fluid-biofilm-porous medium interaction with spatiotemporal resolution. We also discuss the advantages and limitations of these approaches. Lastly, we provide a perspective on opportunities for in situ monitoring at the field site.

Automated summary

The researchers introduced the characteristics of biofilms in subsurface porous media and summarized two methods for studying fluid-biofilm-porous medium interaction: non-invasive measurement methods and mathematical simulation strategies. The advantages and limitations of these methods were discussed, along with a perspective on opportunities for in situ monitoring at the field site.