Advances in the development of electrode materials for improving the reactor kinetics in microbial fuel cells. (March 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Agrahari, Roma; Bayar, Büşra; Abubackar, Haris Nalakath; Giri, Balendu Shekher; Rene, Eldon R.; Rani, Radha
• Is Part Of: Chemosphere. Volume 290(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-03
• Subjects: Microbial fuel cell -- Conductive polymers -- Carbon nanotubes -- Metal oxides -- Power density; Pollution -- Periodicals; Pollution -- Physiological effect -- Periodicals; Environmental sciences -- Periodicals; Atmospheric chemistry -- Periodicals; 551.511
• DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.133184
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0045-6535

Abstract

Abstract: Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are an emerging technology for converting organic waste into electricity, thus providing potential solution to energy crises along with eco-friendly wastewater treatment. The electrode properties and biocatalysts are the major factors affecting electricity production in MFC. The electrons generated during microbial metabolism are captured by the anode and transferred towards the cathode via an external circuit, causing the flow of electricity. This flow of electrons is greatly influenced by the electrode properties and thus, much effort has been made towards electrode modification to improve the MFC performance. Different semiconductors, nanostructured metal oxides and their composite materials have been used to modify the anode as they possess high specific surface area, good biocompatibility, chemical stability and conductive properties. The cathode materials have also been modified using metals like platinum and nano-composites for increasing the redox potential, electrical conductivity and surface area. Therefore, this paper reviews the recent developments in the modification of electrodes towards improving the power generation capacity of MFCs. Graphical abstract: Image 1 Highlights: Electrode modification for high power output in MFC was reviewed. Anode modification is aimed for efficient electron transfer by the biocatalyst. Modification of cathode leads to increased oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) rate. Materials used in MFC: conductive polymers, carbon and/or metal-based.