Mathematical modeling and nuclear magnetic resonance techniques to understand electrochemically active biofilms

The objective of this dissertation was to explore the electron transfer capabilities of electrochemically-active biofilms by employing mathematical modeling and nuclear magnetic resonance techniques. This dissertation is comprised of five published or recently submitted manuscripts, each focusing on a particular aspect of electron transfer by electrochemically-active biofilms or a specific technique used in the study of these biofilms. Overall, the biggest discoveries included 1) the thickness of biofilm relying on conduction-based electron transfer is not limited by electrical resistance as previously reported and 2) accurate diffusion coefficients are critical for understanding and predicting the success of biofilms grown on conductive surfaces.