Progress 2. Computational simulation of the cell culture medium

Computational simulation of the cell culture medium in a bottle adapted to microgravity.

In the exploration of new scientific frontiers, cell culture engineering in microgravity presents an exciting challenge. One of the most significant advancements in this field is the ability to apply computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to optimize and validate designs with precision, enabling us to understand and predict the behavior of complex systems that would otherwise be difficult to represent in a physical model.

Within a cell culture in microgravity, fluid behavior follows a rotating biphasic model. Accurately capturing the interface and the dynamics of low CO₂ concentrations in water is essential. To achieve this, implementing an appropriate multiphase model, considering viscosity effects and activating surface tension, is crucial.

Furthermore, mesh quality plays a fundamental role in simulations. Localized meshing must be applied in critical regions to analyze stresses and concentration gradients, minimizing cellular stress. Additionally, the numerical solution method used in ANSYS must be carefully tailored to the specific phenomenon under study, avoiding numerical diffusion and instabilities that could lead to inaccurate results.

These steps not only ensure the reliability of the model but also reflect a commitment to best computational practices. Applying the correct methods and models is not just a technical requirement but the key to successfully achieving our goals of optimization, validation, and prediction.

This type of innovation brings us closer to understanding life in extreme environments, paving the way for breakthroughs in biotechnology, space exploration, and regenerative medicine. The future of bioengineering in space is already underway!