A review of a recently emerged technology: Constructed wetland – Microbial fuel cells. (15th November 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Doherty, Liam; Zhao, Yaqian; Zhao, Xiaohong; Hu, Yuansheng; Hao, Xiaodi; Xu, Lei; Liu, Ranbin
• Is Part Of: Water research. Volume 85(2015)
• Page Start: 38
• Page End: 45
• Publication Date: 2015-11-15
• Subjects: Constructed wetland -- Microbial fuel cell -- Wastewater treatment -- Electricity generation; Water -- Pollution -- Research -- Periodicals; 363.7394
• DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2015.08.016
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0043-1354

Abstract

Abstract: Constructed wetlands (CWs) and microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are compatible technologies since both are reliant on the actions of bacteria to remove contaminants from wastewater. MFCs require the anode to remain anaerobic with the cathode exposed to oxygen while these redox conditions can develop naturally in CWs. For this reason, research into combining the two technologies (termed as CW-MFC) has emerged in recent years with the aim of improving the wastewater treatment capacity of wetlands while simultaneously producing electrical power. Based on the published work (although limited), this review aims to provide a timely, current state-of-the-art in CW-MFC while exploring future challenges and research directions. Graphical abstract: Highlights: The current state-of-the-art in integrating MFCs into CWs is presented. Benefits of combining the technologies are discussed. Limitations and challenges are discussed. Future research directions are proposed. Integrating with MFC technology may improve CWs.