Biocompatible Visualization of Flow Fields Generated by Microorganisms

Abstract

Abstract. Microflow induced by the ciliates called Opercularia asymmetrica is an interesting phenomenon in biofluidmechanics. Ciliates play an important role in the structural formation of microbial granules derived from activated sludge. Additionally, flow induced by protozoa (ciliates) is treated as an efficient mean of nutrient transport with minimum energy requirement. For the first time powerful digital imaging techniques are used for studying microorganismic convection. Investigations of the flow generated by Opercularia asymmetrica are carried out with help of digital micro Particle Image Velocimetry. Digital micro Particle Tracking Velocimetry is implemented to analyse cilia motion. In biological fluid mechanics flow visualization techniques must guarantee biocompatibility. Thus, in the present work appropriate light illumination and suitable seeding particles are used. Moreover, in order to predict artefacts and correct them novel neuronumerical hybrid is employed.