The influence of higher order geometric terms on the asymmetry and dynamics of membranes

Abstract

We consider membranes as fluid deformable surface and allow for higher order geometric terms in the bending energy. The evolution equations are derived and numerically solved using surface finite elements. The higher order geometric terms related to the Gaussian curvature squared have a tendency to stabilize tubes and enhance the evolution towards equilibrium shapes, thereby facilitating rapid shape changes. This is demonstrated in axisymmetric settings and fully three-dimensional simulations.