Analysis of drag force, deformation and stress distribution of biofouled flexible nets

Key Points

• Drag force significantly affects the deformation of flexible nets under biofouling conditions.
• The analysis showed specific patterns in stress distribution that correlate with different biofouling levels.
• Assessment of net performance indicated that biofouling alters both drag force and structural integrity of nets.
• Potential design improvements could enhance the resilience of flexible nets against biofouling-related stress.