Electron Storage in Electroactive Biofilms. Issue 1 (January 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: ter Heijne, A.; Pereira, M.A.; Pereira, J.; Sleutels, T.
• Is Part Of: Trends in biotechnology. Volume 39:Issue 1(2021)
• Page Start: 34
• Page End: 42
• Publication Date: 2021-01
• Subjects: microbial electrochemical technologies -- electron storage -- polymers -- electroactive biofilms; Biotechnology -- Periodicals; Biochemical engineering -- Periodicals; Genetic engineering -- Periodicals; Industrial microbiology -- Periodicals; 660.605
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2020.06.006
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0167-7799

Abstract

Abstract : Microbial electrochemical technologies (METs) are promising for sustainable applications. Recently, electron storage during intermittent operation of electroactive biofilms (EABs) has been shown to play an important role in power output and electron efficiencies. Insights into electron storage mechanisms, and the conditions under which these occur, are essential to improve microbial electrochemical conversions and to optimize biotechnological processes. Here, we discuss the two main mechanisms for electron storage in EABs: storage in the form of reduced redox active components in the electron transport chain and in the form of polymers. We review electron storage in EABs and in other microorganisms and will discuss how the mechanisms of electron storage can be influenced. Highlights: Intermittent operation of bioanodes influences electron storage in the electroactive biofilm. Longer-term electron storage in the carry over of polymers is an unexplored mechanism. Microbial electrochemical technologies are unique because electrodes provide a new way to control biological conversions. Understanding electron storage may provide new ways to influence the selectivity of biotechnological processes.