Bacterial streamers as colloidal systems: Five grand challenges

Ghosh, UU and Ali, H and Ghosh, R and Kumar, A (2021) Bacterial streamers as colloidal systems: Five grand challenges. In: Journal of Colloid and Interface Science, 594 . pp. 265-278.

PDF jou_col_int__sci_594_265-278_2021.pdf - Published Version Restricted to Registered users only Download (3MB) | Request a copy

Abstract

Bacteria can thrive in biofilms, which are intricately organized communities with cells encased in a self-secreted matrix of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). Imposed hydrodynamic stresses can transform this active colloidal dispersion of bacteria and EPS into slender thread-like entities called streamers. In this perspective article, the reader is introduced to the world of such deformable �bacteria-EPS� composites that are a subclass of the generic flow-induced colloidal structures. While bacterial streamers have been shown to form in a variety of hydrodynamic conditions (turbulent and creeping flows), its abiotic analogues have only been demonstrated in low Reynolds number (Re < 1) particle-laden polymeric flows. Streamers are relevant to a variety of situations ranging from natural formations in caves and river beds to clogging of biomedical devices and filtration membranes. A critical review of the relevant biophysical aspects of streamer formation phenomena and unique attributes of its material behavior are distilled to unveil five grand scientific challenges. The coupling between colloidal hydrodynamics, device geometry and streamer formation are highlighted. © 2021 Elsevier Inc.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Publication:	Journal of Colloid and Interface Science
Publisher:	Academic Press Inc.
Additional Information:	The copyright for this article belongs to Academic Press Inc.
Keywords:	Bacteria; Composite structures; Hydrodynamics; Microfiltration; Polymers; Reynolds number, Colloidal dispersion; Colloidal hydrodynamics; Colloidal structures; Extracellular polymeric substances; Filtration membranes; Hydrodynamic conditions; Hydrodynamic stress; Low Reynolds number, Colloids
Department/Centre:	Division of Mechanical Sciences > Mechanical Engineering
Date Deposited:	21 Apr 2021 05:47
Last Modified:	21 Apr 2021 05:47
URI:	http://eprints.iisc.ac.in/id/eprint/68622

Actions (login required)

View Item