Microbial fuel cells

Microbial fuel cells (MFC) are bioelectrochemical devices that utilize microbes as catalysts for converting chemical energy in organic feedstock directly into electricity [1]. The utilization of MFCS offer a number of potential benefits that can result in eco-friendly fuel alternatives/supplementation, waste management, bioremediation, biosensors, etc [2]. Despite a multitude of promising studies, MFC development advancement is limited by low power generation, expensive electrode materials, and the inability to scale up MFCs to industrially relevant capacities [3]. Additionally, many factors impact the performances and power generation of MFCs, including electrode material, anode/cathode chamber materials, proton exchange system (PES) properties, pH, temperature and the MFC configuration [4]. Finding a balance between efficiency, cost, and application has resulted in the creation of several different types of MFCs.

References

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