Free Surface Coating Flows of Non-Newtonian Gels: 3-D Numerical Simulation of Gravity-Induced Flow

Developing a mechanism capable of protecting the vaginal or rectal epithelium from sexually transmitted pathogens can be an effective tool in the prevention of HIV infection [1]. One such tool can come in the form of a microbicide gel, used to provide a physical barrier and act as a delivery vehicle for its active ingredient [1]. In order for the microbicide to be an effective barrier and delivery vehicle it must have the capability to coat the epithelium for a specific amount of time and sustain its structural integrity under the influence of gravity and other perturbation forces. In addition, to be used as a drug delivery vehicle the microbicide must serve the following functions: coat the surface completely without leaving any of the surface exposed, stay on the surface while influenced by external forces such as gravity and squeezing, and must be able to contain potent concentrations of one or more active microbicidal ingredients.