Free boundary problem for an initial cell layer in multispecies biofilm formation

The initial attached cell layer in multispecies biofilm growth is considered. The corresponding mathematical model leads to discuss a free boundary problem for a system of nonlinear hyperbolic partial differential equations, where the initial biofilm thickness is equal to zero. No assumptions on initial conditions for biomass concentrations and biofilm thickness are required. The data that the problem needs are the concentration of biomass in the bulk liquid and biomass flux from the bulk liquid. The method of characteristics is used to convert the differential system to Volterra integral equations for which an existence and uniqueness theorem is proved. Subsequently, we show that the free boundary is an increasing function of time and biomass concentrations are positive in agreement with the biological process. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.