1
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Apollon W. An Overview of Microbial Fuel Cell Technology for Sustainable Electricity Production. MEMBRANES 2023; 13:884. [PMID: 37999370 PMCID: PMC10672772 DOI: 10.3390/membranes13110884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
The over-exploitation of fossil fuels and their negative environmental impacts have attracted the attention of researchers worldwide, and efforts have been made to propose alternatives for the production of sustainable and clean energy. One proposed alternative is the implementation of bioelectrochemical systems (BESs), such as microbial fuel cells (MFCs), which are sustainable and environmentally friendly. MFCs are devices that use bacterial activity to break down organic matter while generating sustainable electricity. Furthermore, MFCs can produce bioelectricity from various substrates, including domestic wastewater (DWW), municipal wastewater (MWW), and potato and fruit wastes, reducing environmental contamination and decreasing energy consumption and treatment costs. This review focuses on recent advancements regarding the design, configuration, and operation mode of MFCs, as well as their capacity to produce bioelectricity (e.g., 2203 mW/m2) and fuels (i.e., H2: 438.7 mg/L and CH4: 358.7 mg/L). Furthermore, this review highlights practical applications, challenges, and the life-cycle assessment (LCA) of MFCs. Despite the promising biotechnological development of MFCs, great efforts should be made to implement them in a real-time and commercially viable manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilgince Apollon
- Department of Agricultural and Food Engineering, Faculty of Agronomy, Autonomous University of Nuevo León, Francisco Villa S/N, Ex-Hacienda El Canadá, General Escobedo 66050, Nuevo León, Mexico
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2
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Yao H, Xiao J, Tang X. Microbial Fuel Cell-Based Organic Matter Sensors: Principles, Structures and Applications. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:886. [PMID: 37627771 PMCID: PMC10451650 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10080886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Wastewater contains a significant quantity of organic matter, continuously causing environmental pollution. Timely and accurate detection of organic content in water can facilitate improved wastewater treatment and better protect the environment. Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are increasingly recognized as valuable biological monitoring systems, due to their ability to swiftly detect organic indicators such as biological oxygen demand (BOD) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) in water quality. Different types of MFC sensors are used for BOD and COD detection, each with unique features and benefits. This review focuses on different types of MFC sensors used for BOD and COD detection, discussing their benefits and structural optimization, as well as the influencing factors of MFC-based biomonitoring systems. Additionally, the challenges and prospects associated with the development of reliable MFC sensing systems are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Xinhua Tang
- School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430062, China
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3
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Hengsbach JN, Sabel-Becker B, Ulber R, Holtmann D. Microbial electrosynthesis of methane and acetate—comparison of pure and mixed cultures. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2022; 106:4427-4443. [PMID: 35763070 PMCID: PMC9259517 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-022-12031-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Abstract The electrochemical process of microbial electrosynthesis (MES) is used to drive the metabolism of electroactive microorganisms for the production of valuable chemicals and fuels. MES combines the advantages of electrochemistry, engineering, and microbiology and offers alternative production processes based on renewable raw materials and regenerative energies. In addition to the reactor concept and electrode design, the biocatalysts used have a significant influence on the performance of MES. Thus, pure and mixed cultures can be used as biocatalysts. By using mixed cultures, interactions between organisms, such as the direct interspecies electron transfer (DIET) or syntrophic interactions, influence the performance in terms of productivity and the product range of MES. This review focuses on the comparison of pure and mixed cultures in microbial electrosynthesis. The performance indicators, such as productivities and coulombic efficiencies (CEs), for both procedural methods are discussed. Typical products in MES are methane and acetate, therefore these processes are the focus of this review. In general, most studies used mixed cultures as biocatalyst, as more advanced performance of mixed cultures has been seen for both products. When comparing pure and mixed cultures in equivalent experimental setups a 3-fold higher methane and a nearly 2-fold higher acetate production rate can be achieved in mixed cultures. However, studies of pure culture MES for methane production have shown some improvement through reactor optimization and operational mode reaching similar performance indicators as mixed culture MES. Overall, the review gives an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of using pure or mixed cultures in MES. Key points • Undefined mixed cultures dominate as inoculums for the MES of methane and acetate, which comprise a high potential of improvement • Under similar conditions, mixed cultures outperform pure cultures in MES • Understanding the role of single species in mixed culture MES is essential for future industrial applications
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan-Niklas Hengsbach
- Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, Institute of Bioprocess Engineering, Technical University Kaiserslautern, 67663, Kaiserslautern, Germany
| | - Björn Sabel-Becker
- Department of Life Science Engineering, Institute of Bioprocess Engineering and Pharmaceutical Technology, Technische Hochschule Mittelhessen, 35390, Giessen, Germany
| | - Roland Ulber
- Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, Institute of Bioprocess Engineering, Technical University Kaiserslautern, 67663, Kaiserslautern, Germany.
| | - Dirk Holtmann
- Department of Life Science Engineering, Institute of Bioprocess Engineering and Pharmaceutical Technology, Technische Hochschule Mittelhessen, 35390, Giessen, Germany
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4
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Dykstra CM, Pavlostathis SG. Hydrogen sulfide affects the performance of a methanogenic bioelectrochemical system used for biogas upgrading. WATER RESEARCH 2021; 200:117268. [PMID: 34098269 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2021.117268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Methanogenic bioelectrochemical systems (BESs) can convert carbon dioxide (CO2) to methane (CH4) and may be used for anaerobic digester biogas upgrading. However, the effect of hydrogen sulfide (H2S), a common biogas component, on BES performance is unknown. Thus, the objective of this study was to assess the effect of H2S addition to the cathode headspace on BES performance at a range of initial gas-phase H2S concentrations (0-6% v/v), as well as its effect on the anode and cathode microbial communities. As the initial cathode headspace H2S increased from 0 to 2% (v/v), biocathodic CH4 production increased by two-fold to 3.56 ± 0.36 mmol/L-d, due to dissolved H2S transport from the cathode to the anode where H2S was oxidized. Elemental sulfur and sulfate were H2S oxidation products detected in the anode. Above 3% initial cathode headspace H2S, biocathodic CH4 production declined due to inhibition. A phylotype most closely related to Methanobrevibacter arboriphilus dominated the cathode archaeal communities. In the sulfide-amended BES, a phylotype similar to the exoelectrogen Ochrobactrum anthropi was enriched in both the anode and cathode, whereas phylotypes related to sulfate-reducing and sulfur oxidizing Bacteria were detected in the bioanode. Thus, sulfide transport and oxidation in the anode play an important role in methanogenic BESs treating sulfide-bearing biogas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christy M Dykstra
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, 311 Ferst Drive, Atlanta, GA 30332-0512, United States; Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, CA 92182, United States.
| | - Spyros G Pavlostathis
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, 311 Ferst Drive, Atlanta, GA 30332-0512, United States
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5
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Chung TH, Dhar BR. Paper-based platforms for microbial electrochemical cell-based biosensors: A review. Biosens Bioelectron 2021; 192:113485. [PMID: 34274625 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2021.113485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The development of low-cost analytical devices for on-site water quality monitoring is a critical need, especially for developing countries and remote communities in developed countries with limited resources. Microbial electrochemical cell-based (MXC) biosensors have been quite promising for quantitative and semi-quantitative (often qualitative) measurements of various water quality parameters due to their low cost and simplicity compared to traditional analytical methods. However, conventional MXC biosensors often encounter challenges, such as the slow establishment of biofilms, low sensitivity, and poor recoverability, making them unable to be applied for practical cases. In response, MXC biosensors assembled with paper-based materials demonstrated tremendous potentials to enhance sensitivity and field applicability. Furthermore, the paper-based platforms offer many prominent features, including autonomous liquid transport, rapid bacterial adhesion, lowered resistance, low fabrication cost (<$1 in USD), and eco-friendliness. Therefore, this review aims to summarize the current trend and applications of paper-based MXC biosensors, along with critical discussions on their field applicability. Moreover, future advancements of paper-based MXC biosensors, such as developing a novel paper-based biobatteries, increasing the system performance using an unique biocatalyst, such as yeast, and integrating the biosensor system with other advanced tools, such as machine learning and 3D printing, are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tae Hyun Chung
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alberta, 9211-116 Street NW, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1H9, Canada
| | - Bipro Ranjan Dhar
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alberta, 9211-116 Street NW, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1H9, Canada.
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6
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Gomez Vidales A, Bruant G, Omanovic S, Tartakovsky B. Carbon dioxide conversion to C1 - C2 compounds in a microbial electrosynthesis cell with in situ electrodeposition of nickel and iron. Electrochim Acta 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2021.138349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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7
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Yan X, Wang B, Liang H, Yang J, Zhao J, Ndayisenga F, Zhang H, Yu Z, Qian Z. Enhanced straw fermentation process based on microbial electrolysis cell coupled anaerobic digestion. Chin J Chem Eng 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cjche.2021.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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8
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Spiess S, Kucera J, Seelajaroen H, Sasiain A, Thallner S, Kremser K, Novak D, Guebitz GM, Haberbauer M. Impact of Carbon Felt Electrode Pretreatment on Anodic Biofilm Composition in Microbial Electrolysis Cells. BIOSENSORS-BASEL 2021; 11:bios11060170. [PMID: 34073192 PMCID: PMC8229196 DOI: 10.3390/bios11060170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Sustainable technologies for energy production and storage are currently in great demand. Bioelectrochemical systems (BESs) offer promising solutions for both. Several attempts have been made to improve carbon felt electrode characteristics with various pretreatments in order to enhance performance. This study was motivated by gaps in current knowledge of the impact of pretreatments on the enrichment and microbial composition of bioelectrochemical systems. Therefore, electrodes were treated with poly(neutral red), chitosan, or isopropanol in a first step and then fixed in microbial electrolysis cells (MECs). Four MECs consisting of organic substance-degrading bioanodes and methane-producing biocathodes were set up and operated in batch mode by controlling the bioanode at 400 mV vs. Ag/AgCl (3M NaCl). After 1 month of operation, Enterococcus species were dominant microorganisms attached to all bioanodes and independent of electrode pretreatment. However, electrode pretreatments led to a decrease in microbial diversity and the enrichment of specific electroactive genera, according to the type of modification used. The MEC containing isopropanol-treated electrodes achieved the highest performance due to presence of both Enterococcus and Geobacter. The obtained results might help to select suitable electrode pretreatments and support growth conditions for desired electroactive microorganisms, whereby performance of BESs and related applications, such as BES-based biosensors, could be enhanced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Spiess
- K1-MET GmbH, Stahlstrasse 14, 4020 Linz, Austria; (A.S.); (S.T.); (M.H.)
- ACIB GmbH (Austrian Centre of Industrial Biotechnology), Krenngasse 37/2, 8010 Graz, Austria;
- Correspondence:
| | - Jiri Kucera
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic; (J.K.); (D.N.)
| | - Hathaichanok Seelajaroen
- Linz Institute for Organic Solar Cells (LIOS), Institute of Physical Chemistry, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenberger Strasse 69, 4040 Linz, Austria;
| | - Amaia Sasiain
- K1-MET GmbH, Stahlstrasse 14, 4020 Linz, Austria; (A.S.); (S.T.); (M.H.)
| | - Sophie Thallner
- K1-MET GmbH, Stahlstrasse 14, 4020 Linz, Austria; (A.S.); (S.T.); (M.H.)
- ACIB GmbH (Austrian Centre of Industrial Biotechnology), Krenngasse 37/2, 8010 Graz, Austria;
| | - Klemens Kremser
- Department of Agrobiotechnology, Institute of Environmental Biotechnology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna, Konrad-Lorenz-Strasse 20, 3430 Tulln an der Donau, Austria;
| | - David Novak
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic; (J.K.); (D.N.)
| | - Georg M. Guebitz
- ACIB GmbH (Austrian Centre of Industrial Biotechnology), Krenngasse 37/2, 8010 Graz, Austria;
- Department of Agrobiotechnology, Institute of Environmental Biotechnology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna, Konrad-Lorenz-Strasse 20, 3430 Tulln an der Donau, Austria;
| | - Marianne Haberbauer
- K1-MET GmbH, Stahlstrasse 14, 4020 Linz, Austria; (A.S.); (S.T.); (M.H.)
- ACIB GmbH (Austrian Centre of Industrial Biotechnology), Krenngasse 37/2, 8010 Graz, Austria;
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9
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Zhou H, Xing D, Xu M, Su Y, Ma J, Angelidaki I, Zhang Y. Optimization of a newly developed electromethanogenesis for the highest record of methane production. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 407:124363. [PMID: 33199142 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2020.124363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The development of an effective biocathode with high catalytic ability and dense biomass is a major challenge for the industrial applications of electromethanogenesis (EM) process. In our previous study, intact anaerobic granular sludge (AnGS) biocathode and EM hybrid system (AnGS-EM) showed superior ability and stability when treating raw biogas, but its maximum CO2-to-CH4 conversion potential and the response to different operating conditions are still unknown. Herein, we optimized the performance of the AnGS-EM system and explored its maximum CH4 production capacity. The AnGS-EM system achieved a maximum methane production rate of 202.15 L CH4/m2catproj/d, which is over 3 times higher than the maximum value reported so far. Within a certain range, the methane production rate increased with the buffer concentration, applied voltage, and bicarbonate concentration. Excessive applied voltage and carbonate concentration not only led to resource waste but also inhibited methanogen performance. The AnGS biocathode could withstand oxygen exposure for 24 h, the acidic (pH of 5.5), and alkaline conditions (pH over 9). Illumina sequencing results showed that hydrogenotrophic methanogen (especially Methanobacterium) were dominant. This work using AnGS as biocathode for CH4 synthesis offers insight into the development of scalable, efficient, and cost-effective biocathode for biofuels and value-added chemicals production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huihui Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resources and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China; Department of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Defeng Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resources and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China.
| | - Mingyi Xu
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Yanyan Su
- Carlsberg Research Laboratory, Bjerregaardsvej 5, 2500 Valby, Denmark
| | - Jun Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resources and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Irini Angelidaki
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Yifeng Zhang
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Lyngby, Denmark.
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10
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Dinh HTT, Kambara H, Harada Y, Matsushita S, Aoi Y, Kindaichi T, Ozaki N, Ohashi A. Bioelectrical Methane Production with an Ammonium Oxidative Reaction under the No Organic Substance Condition. Microbes Environ 2021; 36. [PMID: 34135211 PMCID: PMC8209456 DOI: 10.1264/jsme2.me21007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study investigated bioelectrical methane production from CO2 without organic substances. Even though microbial methane production has been reported at relatively high electric voltages, the amount of voltage required and the organisms contributing to the process currently remain unknown. Methane production using a biocathode was investigated in a microbial electrolysis cell coupled with an NH4+ oxidative reaction at an anode coated with platinum powder under a wide range of applied voltages and anaerobic conditions. A microbial community analysis revealed that methane production simultaneously occurred with biological denitrification at the biocathode. During denitrification, NO3– was produced by chemical NH4+ oxidation at the anode and was provided to the biocathode chamber. H2 was produced at the biocathode by the hydrogen-producing bacteria Petrimonas through the acceptance of electrons and protons. The H2 produced was biologically consumed by hydrogenotrophic methanogens of Methanobacterium and Methanobrevibacter with CO2 uptake and by hydrogenotrophic denitrifiers of Azonexus. This microbial community suggests that methane is indirectly produced without the use of electrons by methanogens. Furthermore, bioelectrical methane production occurred under experimental conditions even at a very low voltage of 0.05 V coupled with NH4+ oxidation, which was thermodynamically feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ha T T Dinh
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Hiroshima University.,Faculty of Environment, Ho Chi Minh City University of Natural Resources and Environment
| | - Hiromi Kambara
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Hiroshima University
| | - Yoshiki Harada
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Hiroshima University
| | - Shuji Matsushita
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Hiroshima University.,Agricultural Technology Research Center, Hiroshima Prefectural Technology Research Institute
| | - Yoshiteru Aoi
- Program of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University
| | - Tomonori Kindaichi
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Hiroshima University
| | - Noriatsu Ozaki
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Hiroshima University
| | - Akiyoshi Ohashi
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Hiroshima University
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11
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Shahi A, Rai BN, Singh RS. Biodegradation of Reactive Orange 16 Dye in Microbial Fuel Cell: An Innovative Way to Minimize Waste Along with Electricity Production. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2020; 192:196-210. [DOI: 10.1007/s12010-020-03306-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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12
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Chu N, Liang Q, Jiang Y, Zeng RJ. Microbial electrochemical platform for the production of renewable fuels and chemicals. Biosens Bioelectron 2020; 150:111922. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2019.111922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 11/23/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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13
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Feki E, Battimelli A, Sayadi S, Dhouib A, Khoufi S. High-Rate Anaerobic Digestion of Waste Activated Sludge by Integration of Electro-Fenton Process. Molecules 2020; 25:E626. [PMID: 32023920 PMCID: PMC7037508 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25030626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Anaerobic digestion (AD), being the most effective treatment method of waste activated sludge (WAS), allows for safe disposal. The present study deals with the electro-Fenton (EF) pretreatment for enhancing the WAS biogas potential with low-cost iron electrodes. The effect of pretreatment on the physicochemical characteristics of sludge was assessed. Following EF pretreatment, the pH, conductivity, soluble chemical oxygen demand (SCOD), and volatile fatty acids (VFA) increased to 7.5, 13.72 mS/cm, 4.1 g/L, and 925 mg/L, respectively. Capillary suction time (CST) analysis highlighted the dewaterability effect of EF on WAS, as demonstrated by the decrease in CST from 429 to 180 s following 30 min of pretreatment. Batch digestion assays presented an increase in the biogas yield to 0.135 L/g volatile solids (VS) after 60 min of EF pretreatment in comparison to raw sludge (0.08 L/g VS). Production of biogas was also found to improve during semi-continuous fermentation of EF-pretreated sludge conducted in a lab-scale reactor. In comparison to raw sludge, EF-pretreated sludge produced the highest biogas yield (0.81 L biogas/g VS) with a high COD removal rate, reaching 96.6% at an organic loading rate (OLR) of 2.5 g VS/L. d. Results revealed that the EF process could be an effective WAS disintegration method with maximum recovery of bioenergy during AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emna Feki
- Laboratory of Environmental Bioprocesses, Centre of Biotechnology of Sfax, BP 1177, Sfax 3018, Tunisia; (E.F.); (A.D.)
| | - Audrey Battimelli
- INRAE, Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Biotechnologie de l’Environnement, 102 avenue des Etangs, 11100 Narbonne, France
| | - Sami Sayadi
- Center for Sustainable Development, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
| | - Abdelhafidh Dhouib
- Laboratory of Environmental Bioprocesses, Centre of Biotechnology of Sfax, BP 1177, Sfax 3018, Tunisia; (E.F.); (A.D.)
| | - Sonia Khoufi
- Laboratory of Environmental Bioprocesses, Centre of Biotechnology of Sfax, BP 1177, Sfax 3018, Tunisia; (E.F.); (A.D.)
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14
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Jiang Y, Chu N, Qian DK, Jianxiong Zeng R. Microbial electrochemical stimulation of caproate production from ethanol and carbon dioxide. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2020; 295:122266. [PMID: 31669871 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2019.122266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The production of value added chemicals from CO2 is of critical importance for the practical application of microbial electrosynthesis (MES). Here, a binary electron donor (ED) design (using electrode and ethanol) was introduced to provide an efficient caproate production with the bioconversion of both CO2 and ethanol. A maximum caproate production rate of 2.41 ± 0.69 g L-1 d-1, and a final concentration of 7.66 ± 1.38 g L-1 was achieved. Caproate production selectivity based on the substrate increased to 91.47 ± 0.58% (Binary EDs) from 32.22 ± 32.58% (open circuit Electrode ED). An observed amount of 23.43 ± 0.69% of carbon within the final binary ED products originated from the CO2. This work proves for the first time the potential of caproate production from CO2 utilization and ethanol upgrading using solid electrodes to regulate the chain elongation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Jiang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil Environmental Health and Regulation, College of Resources and Environment, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, China
| | - Na Chu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil Environmental Health and Regulation, College of Resources and Environment, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, China
| | - Ding-Kang Qian
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil Environmental Health and Regulation, College of Resources and Environment, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, China
| | - Raymond Jianxiong Zeng
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil Environmental Health and Regulation, College of Resources and Environment, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, China.
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15
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Li J, Li Z, Xiao S, Fu Q, Kobayashi H, Zhang L, Liao Q, Zhu X. Startup cathode potentials determine electron transfer behaviours of biocathodes catalysing CO2 reduction to CH4 in microbial electrosynthesis. J CO2 UTIL 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcou.2019.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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16
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Jiang Y, May HD, Lu L, Liang P, Huang X, Ren ZJ. Carbon dioxide and organic waste valorization by microbial electrosynthesis and electro-fermentation. WATER RESEARCH 2019; 149:42-55. [PMID: 30419466 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2018.10.092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Revised: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Carbon-rich waste materials (solid, liquid, or gaseous) are largely considered to be a burden on society due to the large capital and energy costs for their treatment and disposal. However, solid and liquid organic wastes have inherent energy and value, and similar as waste CO2 gas they can be reused to produce value-added chemicals and materials. There has been a paradigm shift towards developing a closed loop, biorefinery approach for the valorization of these wastes into value-added products, and such an approach enables a more carbon-efficient and circular economy. This review quantitatively analyzes the state-of-the-art of the emerging microbial electrochemical technology (MET) platform and provides critical perspectives on research advancement and technology development. The review offers side-by-side comparison between microbial electrosynthesis (MES) and electro-fermentation (EF) processes in terms of principles, key performance metrics, data analysis, and microorganisms. The study also summarizes all the processes and products that have been developed using MES and EF to date for organic waste and CO2 valorization. It finally identifies the technological and economic potentials and challenges on future system development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Jiang
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environment Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, PR China; Department of Civil, Environmental, and Architectural Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil Environmental Health and Regulation, College of Resources and Environment, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350002, China
| | - Harold D May
- Hollings Marine Laboratory, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Lu Lu
- Department of Civil, Environmental, and Architectural Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA; Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, 08544, USA
| | - Peng Liang
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environment Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, PR China.
| | - Xia Huang
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environment Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, PR China
| | - Zhiyong Jason Ren
- Department of Civil, Environmental, and Architectural Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA; Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, 08544, USA.
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Rago L, Zecchin S, Villa F, Goglio A, Corsini A, Cavalca L, Schievano A. Bioelectrochemical Nitrogen fixation (e-BNF): Electro-stimulation of enriched biofilm communities drives autotrophic nitrogen and carbon fixation. Bioelectrochemistry 2019; 125:105-115. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2018.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Revised: 10/11/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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18
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Wang Y, Pan Y, Li X, Zhang K, Zhu T. Sludge degradation and microbial community structures analysis in a microbial electrolysis cell-coupled up flow anaerobic blanket reactor with an ultrasound treatment system. RSC Adv 2018; 8:42032-42040. [PMID: 35558805 PMCID: PMC9092061 DOI: 10.1039/c8ra08726a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This study proposed a sludge degradation system comprised of: (i) an ultrasound treatment (UT) system to disintegrate sludge; (ii) an up flow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactor to degrade the disintegrated sludge; and (iii) a microbial electrolysis cell (MEC) in replacement of a three-phase UASB separator to deeply degrade the disintegrated sludge. The influence of the ultrasound power, the temperature, and the voltage on the sludge degradation process was discussed. The experimental results showed that the UT unit effectively promoted sludge disintegration, thereby leading to deterioration of the quality of the reactor effluent. The temperature and the voltage parameters were found to be key for the anaerobic degradation (AD) process within this system. The volatile suspended solid concentration in the effluent was maintained at 320–380 mg L−1 (ca. 0.08 times the raw sludge concentration), thereby validating the utilization of MEC as a three-phase separation unit. The total chemical oxygen demand removal was maintained at 61.3% during 5 days of AD upon intermittent exposure of the sludge to the UT unit, thereby showing that the system can effectively degrade solid organic matter. The bacterial community structure of the raw sludge significantly changed, with the high biodiversity of this system increasing the ecological stability. This system can degrade sludge with high efficiency and could be used in further engineering applications. This study proposes an ultrasound treatment–up flow anaerobic sludge blanket–microbial electrolysis cell (UT-UASB-MEC) degradation system.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Youzhao Wang
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Northeastern University Shenyang 110004 China
| | - Yuan Pan
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Northeastern University Shenyang 110004 China
| | - Xianjin Li
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Northeastern University Shenyang 110004 China
| | - Kuo Zhang
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Northeastern University Shenyang 110004 China
| | - Tong Zhu
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Northeastern University Shenyang 110004 China
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19
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Jiang Y, Jianxiong Zeng R. Expanding the product spectrum of value added chemicals in microbial electrosynthesis through integrated process design-A review. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2018; 269:503-512. [PMID: 30174268 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2018.08.101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Revised: 08/23/2018] [Accepted: 08/24/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Microbial electrosynthesis (MES) is a novel microbial electrochemical technology proposed for chemicals production with the storage of sustainable energy. However, the practical application of MES is currently restricted by the limited low market value of products in one-step conversion process, mostly acetate. A theme that is pervasive throughout this review is the challenges associated with the expanded product spectrum. Several recent research efforts to improve acetate production, using novel reactor configuration, renewable power supply, and various 3-D cathode are summarized. The importance of genetic modification, two-step hybrid process, as well as input substrates other than CO2 are highlighted in this review as the future research paths for higher value chemicals production. At last, how to integrate MES with existing biochemicals processes is proposed. Definitely, more studies are encouraged to evaluate the overall performances and economic efficiency of these integrated process designs to make MES more competitive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Jiang
- Center of Wastewater Resource Recovery, College of Resources and Environment, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, China
| | - Raymond Jianxiong Zeng
- Center of Wastewater Resource Recovery, College of Resources and Environment, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, China.
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20
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Enzmann F, Mayer F, Rother M, Holtmann D. Methanogens: biochemical background and biotechnological applications. AMB Express 2018; 8:1. [PMID: 29302756 PMCID: PMC5754280 DOI: 10.1186/s13568-017-0531-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Since fossil sources for fuel and platform chemicals will become limited in the near future, it is important to develop new concepts for energy supply and production of basic reagents for chemical industry. One alternative to crude oil and fossil natural gas could be the biological conversion of CO2 or small organic molecules to methane via methanogenic archaea. This process has been known from biogas plants, but recently, new insights into the methanogenic metabolism, technical optimizations and new technology combinations were gained, which would allow moving beyond the mere conversion of biomass. In biogas plants, steps have been undertaken to increase yield and purity of the biogas, such as addition of hydrogen or metal granulate. Furthermore, the integration of electrodes led to the development of microbial electrosynthesis (MES). The idea behind this technique is to use CO2 and electrical power to generate methane via the microbial metabolism. This review summarizes the biochemical and metabolic background of methanogenesis as well as the latest technical applications of methanogens. As a result, it shall give a sufficient overview over the topic to both, biologists and engineers handling biological or bioelectrochemical methanogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Enzmann
- DECHEMA Research Institute, Industrial Biotechnology, Theodor-Heuss-Allee 25, 60486 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Florian Mayer
- DECHEMA Research Institute, Industrial Biotechnology, Theodor-Heuss-Allee 25, 60486 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Michael Rother
- Technische Universität Dresden, Institut für Mikrobiologie, Zellescher Weg 20b, 01217 Dresden, Germany
| | - Dirk Holtmann
- DECHEMA Research Institute, Industrial Biotechnology, Theodor-Heuss-Allee 25, 60486 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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21
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Sivagurunathan P, Kuppam C, Mudhoo A, Saratale GD, Kadier A, Zhen G, Chatellard L, Trably E, Kumar G. A comprehensive review on two-stage integrative schemes for the valorization of dark fermentative effluents. Crit Rev Biotechnol 2017; 38:868-882. [DOI: 10.1080/07388551.2017.1416578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Chandrasekhar Kuppam
- School of Applied Biosciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Ackmez Mudhoo
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Mauritius, Reduit, Republic of Mauritius
| | - Ganesh D. Saratale
- Department of Food Science & Biotechnology, Dongguk University- Seoul, Ilsandong-gu, Goyang-si, Gyonggido, Republic of Korea
| | - Abudukeremu Kadier
- Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, Faculty of Engineering & Built Environment, National University of Malaysia (UKM), Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Guangyin Zhen
- Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, PR China
| | | | | | - Gopalakrishnan Kumar
- Green Processing, Bioremediation and Alternative Energies Research Group, Faculty of Environment and Labour Safety, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
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22
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Freestanding and flexible graphene papers as bioelectrochemical cathode for selective and efficient CO 2 conversion. Sci Rep 2017; 7:9107. [PMID: 28831188 PMCID: PMC5567247 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-09841-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
During microbial electrosynthesis (MES) driven CO2 reduction, cathode plays a vital role by donating electrons to microbe. Here, we exploited the advantage of reduced graphene oxide (RGO) paper as novel cathode material to enhance electron transfer between the cathode and microbe, which in turn facilitated CO2 reduction. The acetate production rate of Sporomusa ovata-driven MES reactors was 168.5 ± 22.4 mmol m−2 d−1 with RGO paper cathodes poised at −690 mV versus standard hydrogen electrode. This rate was approximately 8 fold faster than for carbon paper electrodes of the same dimension. The current density with RGO paper cathodes of 2580 ± 540 mA m−2 was increased 7 fold compared to carbon paper cathodes. This also corresponded to a better cathodic current response on their cyclic voltammetric curves. The coulombic efficiency for the electrons conversion into acetate was 90.7 ± 9.3% with RGO paper cathodes and 83.8 ± 4.2% with carbon paper cathodes, respectively. Furthermore, more intensive cell attachment was observed on RGO paper electrodes than on carbon paper electrodes with confocal laser scanning microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. These results highlight the potential of RGO paper as a promising cathode for MES from CO2.
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23
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Jiang Y, Liang P, Liu P, Wang D, Miao B, Huang X. A novel microbial fuel cell sensor with biocathode sensing element. Biosens Bioelectron 2017; 94:344-350. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2017.02.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2016] [Revised: 02/14/2017] [Accepted: 02/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Dykstra CM, Pavlostathis SG. Methanogenic Biocathode Microbial Community Development and the Role of Bacteria. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2017; 51:5306-5316. [PMID: 28368570 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.6b04112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The cathode microbial community of a methanogenic bioelectrochemical system (BES) is key to the efficient conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) to methane (CH4) with application to biogas upgrading. The objective of this study was to compare the performance and microbial community composition of a biocathode inoculated with a mixed methanogenic (MM) culture to a biocathode inoculated with an enriched hydrogenotrophic methanogenic (EHM) culture, developed from the MM culture following pre-enrichment with H2 and CO2 as the only externally supplied electron donor and carbon source, respectively. Using an adjacent Ag/AgCl reference electrode, biocathode potential was poised at -0.8 V (versus SHE) using a potentiostat, with the bioanode acting as the counter electrode. When normalized to cathode biofilm biomass, the methane production in the MM- and EHM-biocathode was 0.153 ± 0.010 and 0.586 ± 0.029 mmol CH4/mg biomass-day, respectively. This study showed that H2/CO2 pre-enriched inoculum enhanced biocathode CH4 production, although the archaeal communities in both biocathodes converged primarily (86-100%) on a phylotype closely related to Methanobrevibacter arboriphilus. The bacterial community of the MM-biocathode was similar to that of the MM inoculum but was enriched in Spirochaetes and other nonexoelectrogenic, fermentative Bacteria. In contrast, the EHM-biocathode bacterial community was enriched in Proteobacteria, exoelectrogens, and putative producers of electron shuttle mediators. Similar biomass levels were detected in the MM- and EHM-biocathodes. Thus, although the archaeal communities were similar in the two biocathodes, the difference in bacterial community composition was likely responsible for the 3.8-fold larger CH4 production rate observed in the EHM-biocathode. Roles for abundant OTUs identified in the biofilm and inoculum cultures were highlighted on the basis of previous reports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christy M Dykstra
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology , Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
| | - Spyros G Pavlostathis
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology , Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
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Blasco-Gómez R, Batlle-Vilanova P, Villano M, Balaguer MD, Colprim J, Puig S. On the Edge of Research and Technological Application: A Critical Review of Electromethanogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:E874. [PMID: 28425974 PMCID: PMC5412455 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18040874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Revised: 03/22/2017] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The conversion of electrical current into methane (electromethanogenesis) by microbes represents one of the most promising applications of bioelectrochemical systems (BES). Electromethanogenesis provides a novel approach to waste treatment, carbon dioxide fixation and renewable energy storage into a chemically stable compound, such as methane. This has become an important area of research since it was first described, attracting different research groups worldwide. Basics of the process such as microorganisms involved and main reactions are now much better understood, and recent advances in BES configuration and electrode materials in lab-scale enhance the interest in this technology. However, there are still some gaps that need to be filled to move towards its application. Side reactions or scaling-up issues are clearly among the main challenges that need to be overcome to its further development. This review summarizes the recent advances made in the field of electromethanogenesis to address the main future challenges and opportunities of this novel process. In addition, the present fundamental knowledge is critically reviewed and some insights are provided to identify potential niche applications and help researchers to overcome current technological boundaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramiro Blasco-Gómez
- Laboratory of Chemical and Environmental Engineering (LEQUIA), Institute of the Environment, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, Carrer Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 69, E-17003 Girona, Spain.
| | - Pau Batlle-Vilanova
- Laboratory of Chemical and Environmental Engineering (LEQUIA), Institute of the Environment, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, Carrer Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 69, E-17003 Girona, Spain.
- Department of Innovation and Technology, FCC Aqualia, Balmes Street, 36, 6th Floor, 08007 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Marianna Villano
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Maria Dolors Balaguer
- Laboratory of Chemical and Environmental Engineering (LEQUIA), Institute of the Environment, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, Carrer Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 69, E-17003 Girona, Spain.
| | - Jesús Colprim
- Laboratory of Chemical and Environmental Engineering (LEQUIA), Institute of the Environment, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, Carrer Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 69, E-17003 Girona, Spain.
| | - Sebastià Puig
- Laboratory of Chemical and Environmental Engineering (LEQUIA), Institute of the Environment, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, Carrer Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 69, E-17003 Girona, Spain.
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Mixed Culture Biocathodes for Production of Hydrogen, Methane, and Carboxylates. ADVANCES IN BIOCHEMICAL ENGINEERING/BIOTECHNOLOGY 2017; 167:203-229. [DOI: 10.1007/10_2017_15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
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27
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Zhang T, Tremblay PL. Hybrid photosynthesis-powering biocatalysts with solar energy captured by inorganic devices. BIOTECHNOLOGY FOR BIOFUELS 2017; 10:249. [PMID: 29093753 PMCID: PMC5663055 DOI: 10.1186/s13068-017-0943-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The biological reduction of CO2 driven by sunlight via photosynthesis is a crucial process for life on earth. However, the conversion efficiency of solar energy to biomass by natural photosynthesis is low. This translates in bioproduction processes relying on natural photosynthesis that are inefficient energetically. Recently, hybrid photosynthetic technologies with the potential of significantly increasing the efficiency of solar energy conversion to products have been developed. In these systems, the reduction of CO2 into biofuels or other chemicals of interest by biocatalysts is driven by solar energy captured with inorganic devices such as photovoltaic cells or photoelectrodes. Here, we explore hybrid photosynthesis and examine the strategies being deployed to improve this biotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Zhang
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Science, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, 430070 People’s Republic of China
| | - Pier-Luc Tremblay
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Science, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, 430070 People’s Republic of China
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28
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Bioelectrochemical Power-to-Gas: State of the Art and Future Perspectives. Trends Biotechnol 2016; 34:879-894. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2016.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2016] [Revised: 08/23/2016] [Accepted: 08/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Holmes D, Smith J. Biologically Produced Methane as a Renewable Energy Source. ADVANCES IN APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY 2016; 97:1-61. [PMID: 27926429 DOI: 10.1016/bs.aambs.2016.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Methanogens are a unique group of strictly anaerobic archaea that are more metabolically diverse than previously thought. Traditionally, it was thought that methanogens could only generate methane by coupling the oxidation of products formed by fermentative bacteria with the reduction of CO2. However, it has recently been observed that many methanogens can also use electrons extruded from metal-respiring bacteria, biocathodes, or insoluble electron shuttles as energy sources. Methanogens are found in both human-made and natural environments and are responsible for the production of ∼71% of the global atmospheric methane. Their habitats range from the human digestive tract to hydrothermal vents. Although biologically produced methane can negatively impact the environment if released into the atmosphere, when captured, it can serve as a potent fuel source. The anaerobic digestion of wastes such as animal manure, human sewage, or food waste produces biogas which is composed of ∼60% methane. Methane from biogas can be cleaned to yield purified methane (biomethane) that can be readily incorporated into natural gas pipelines making it a promising renewable energy source. Conventional anaerobic digestion is limited by long retention times, low organics removal efficiencies, and low biogas production rates. Therefore, many studies are being conducted to improve the anaerobic digestion process. Researchers have found that addition of conductive materials and/or electrically active cathodes to anaerobic digesters can stimulate the digestion process and increase methane content of biogas. It is hoped that optimization of anaerobic digesters will make biogas more readily accessible to the average person.
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30
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Tremblay PL, Zhang T. Electrifying microbes for the production of chemicals. Front Microbiol 2015; 6:201. [PMID: 25814988 PMCID: PMC4356085 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2015.00201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2015] [Accepted: 02/24/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Powering microbes with electrical energy to produce valuable chemicals such as biofuels has recently gained traction as a biosustainable strategy to reduce our dependence on oil. Microbial electrosynthesis (MES) is one of the bioelectrochemical approaches developed in the last decade that could have critical impact on the current methods of chemical synthesis. MES is a process in which electroautotrophic microbes use electrical current as electron source to reduce CO2 to multicarbon organics. Electricity necessary for MES can be harvested from renewable resources such as solar energy, wind turbine, or wastewater treatment processes. The net outcome is that renewable energy is stored in the covalent bonds of organic compounds synthesized from greenhouse gas. This review will discuss the future of MES and the challenges that lie ahead for its development into a mature technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pier-Luc Tremblay
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Hørsholm Denmark
| | - Tian Zhang
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Hørsholm Denmark
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31
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Siegert M, Li XF, Yates MD, Logan BE. The presence of hydrogenotrophic methanogens in the inoculum improves methane gas production in microbial electrolysis cells. Front Microbiol 2015; 5:778. [PMID: 25642216 PMCID: PMC4295556 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2014.00778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2014] [Accepted: 12/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
High current densities in microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) result from the predominance of various Geobacter species on the anode, but it is not known if archaeal communities similarly converge to one specific genus. MECs were examined here on the basis of maximum methane production and current density relative to the inoculum community structure. We used anaerobic digester (AD) sludge dominated by acetoclastic Methanosaeta, and an anaerobic bog sediment where hydrogenotrophic methanogens were detected. Inoculation using solids to medium ratio of 25% (w/v) resulted in the highest methane production rates (0.27 mL mL−1 cm−2, gas volume normalized by liquid volume and cathode projected area) and highest peak current densities (0.5 mA cm−2) for the bog sample. Methane production was independent of solid to medium ratio when AD sludge was used as the inoculum. 16S rRNA gene community analysis using pyrosequencing and quantitative PCR confirmed the convergence of Archaea to Methanobacterium and Methanobrevibacter, and of Bacteria to Geobacter, despite their absence in AD sludge. Combined with other studies, these findings suggest that Archaea of the hydrogenotrophic genera Methanobacterium and Methanobrevibacter are the most important microorganisms for methane production in MECs and that their presence in the inoculum improves the performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Siegert
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Penn State University University Park, PA, USA
| | - Xiu-Fen Li
- School of Environmental and Civil Engineering, Jiangnan University Wuxi, China
| | - Matthew D Yates
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Penn State University University Park, PA, USA
| | - Bruce E Logan
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Penn State University University Park, PA, USA
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