Innovative Turbulence Technology to Prevent Zebra Mussel Byssal Thread Attachment

In 2011, a zebra mussel invasion caused a critical water pipeline shutdown in the Dallas area, intensifying water shortages during a drought. The economic impact of these pests is staggering, with annual management costs in the Great Lakes alone exceeding $500 million. Zebra mussels attach themselves to various surfaces using byssal threads, causing significant damage to water infrastructure. However, Barrier Flow Technology (BFT) is pioneering a solution that leverages turbulence at the pipe walls to prevent these attachments, offering a groundbreaking approach to tackling this invasive species.