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Cabau-Peinado O, Winkelhorst M, Stroek R, de Kat Angelino R, Straathof AJJ, Masania K, Daran JM, Jourdin L. Microbial electrosynthesis from CO 2 reaches productivity of syngas and chain elongation fermentations. Trends Biotechnol 2024:S0167-7799(24)00152-5. [PMID: 39122591 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2024.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
Carbon-based products are essential to society, yet producing them from fossil fuels is unsustainable. Microorganisms have the ability to take up electrons from solid electrodes and convert carbon dioxide (CO2) to valuable carbon-based chemicals. However, higher productivities and energy efficiencies are needed to reach a viability that can make the technology transformative. Here, we show how a biofilm-based microbial porous cathode in a directed flow-through electrochemical system can continuously reduce CO2 to even-chain C2-C6 carboxylic acids over 248 days. We demonstrate a threefold higher biofilm concentration, volumetric current density, and productivity compared with the state of the art. Most notably, the volumetric productivity (VP) resembles those achieved in laboratory-scale and industrial syngas (CO-H2-CO2) fermentation and chain elongation fermentation. This work highlights key design parameters for efficient electricity-driven microbial CO2 reduction. There is need and room to improve the rates of electrode colonization and microbe-specific kinetics to scale up the technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oriol Cabau-Peinado
- Department of Biotechnology, Delft University of Technology, van der Maasweg 9, 2629, HZ, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Marijn Winkelhorst
- Department of Biotechnology, Delft University of Technology, van der Maasweg 9, 2629, HZ, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Rozanne Stroek
- Department of Biotechnology, Delft University of Technology, van der Maasweg 9, 2629, HZ, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Roderick de Kat Angelino
- Department of Biotechnology, Delft University of Technology, van der Maasweg 9, 2629, HZ, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Adrie J J Straathof
- Department of Biotechnology, Delft University of Technology, van der Maasweg 9, 2629, HZ, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Kunal Masania
- Shaping Matter Lab, Faculty of Aerospace Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Kluyverweg 1, Delft 2629 HS, The Netherlands
| | - Jean Marc Daran
- Department of Biotechnology, Delft University of Technology, van der Maasweg 9, 2629, HZ, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Ludovic Jourdin
- Department of Biotechnology, Delft University of Technology, van der Maasweg 9, 2629, HZ, Delft, The Netherlands.
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2
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Fathima A, Ilankoon IMSK, Zhang Y, Chong MN. Scaling up of dual-chamber microbial electrochemical systems - An appraisal using systems design approach. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169186. [PMID: 38086487 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Impetus to minimise the energy and carbon footprints of evolving wastewater resource recovery facilities has promoted the development of microbial electrochemical systems (MES) as an emerging energy-neutral and sustainable platform technology. Using separators in dual-chamber MES to isolate anodic and cathodic environments creates endless opportunities for its myriad applications. Nevertheless, the high internal resistance and the complex interdependencies among various system factors have challenged its scale-up. This critical review employed a systems approach to examine the complex interdependencies and practical issues surrounding the implementation and scalability of dual-chamber MES, where the anodic and cathodic reactions are mutually appraised to improve the overall system efficiency. The robustness and stability of anodic biofilms in large-volume MES is dependent on its inoculum source, antecedent history and enrichment strategies. The composition and anode-respiring activity of these biofilms are modulated by the anolyte composition, while their performance demands a delicate balance between the electrode size, macrostructure and the availability of substrates, buffers and nutrients when using real wastewater as anolyte. Additionally, the catholyte governed the reduction environment and associated energy consumption of MES with scalable electrocatalysts needed to enhance the sluggish reaction kinetics for energy-efficient resource recovery. A comprehensive assessment of the dual-chamber reactor configuration revealed that the tubular, spiral-wound, or plug-in modular MES configurations are suitable for pilot-scale, where it could be designed more effectively using efficient electrode macrostructure, suitable membranes and bespoke strategies for continuous operation to maximise their performance. It is anticipated that the critical and analytical understanding gained through this review will support the continuous development and scaling-up of dual-chamber MES for prospective energy-neutral treatment of wastewater and simultaneous circular management of highly relevant environmental resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arshia Fathima
- Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Engineering, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, 47500 Bandar Sunway, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - I M S K Ilankoon
- Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Engineering, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, 47500 Bandar Sunway, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Yifeng Zhang
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Meng Nan Chong
- Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Engineering, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, 47500 Bandar Sunway, Selangor, Malaysia.
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3
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Llorente M, Tejedor‐Sanz S, Berná A, Manchón C, Esteve‐Núñez A. Novel electrochemical strategies for the microbial conversion of CO 2 into biomass and volatile fatty acids using a fluid-like bed electrode in a three-phase reactor. Microb Biotechnol 2024; 17:e14383. [PMID: 38231155 PMCID: PMC10832540 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.14383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Microbial electrosynthesis (MES) constitutes a bioelectrochemical process where bacteria uptake electrons extracellularly from a polarized electrode to incorporate them into their anabolic metabolism. However, the efficiency of current MES reactor designs can be lower than expected due to limitations regarding electron transfer and mass transport. One of the most promising bioreactor configurations to overcome these bottlenecks is the Microbial Electrochemical Fluidized Bed Reactor (ME-FBR). In this study, microbial CO2 fixation is investigated for the first time in a ME-FBR operated as a 3-phase reactor (solid-liquid-gas). An electroconductive carbon bed, acting as a working electrode, was fluidized with gas and polarized at different potentials (-0.6, -0.8 and -1 V vs. Ag/AgCl) so it could act as an electron donor (biocathode). Under these potentials, CO2 fixation and electron transfer were evaluated. Autotrophic electroactive microorganisms from anaerobic wastewater were enriched in a ME-FBR in the presence of 2-bromoethanosulfonic acid (BES) to inhibit the growth of methanogens. Cyclic voltammetry analysis revealed interaction between the microorganisms and the cathode. Furthermore, volatile fatty acids like propionate, formate and acetate were detected in the culture supernatant. Acetate production had a maximum rate of ca. 1 g L-1 day-1 . Planktonic cell biomass was produced under continuous culture at values as high as ca. 0.7 g L-1 dry weight. Overall, this study demonstrates the feasibility of employing a fluidized electrode with gaseous substrates and electricity as the energy source for generating biomass and carboxylic acids.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Llorente
- Department of Chemical EngineeringUniversidad de AlcaláAlcalá de HenaresMadridSpain
| | - Sara Tejedor‐Sanz
- Department of Chemical EngineeringUniversidad de AlcaláAlcalá de HenaresMadridSpain
| | | | - Carlos Manchón
- Department of Chemical EngineeringUniversidad de AlcaláAlcalá de HenaresMadridSpain
| | - Abraham Esteve‐Núñez
- Department of Chemical EngineeringUniversidad de AlcaláAlcalá de HenaresMadridSpain
- IMDEA WATERAlcalá de HenaresMadridSpain
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4
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Liu Z, Xue X, Cai W, Cui K, Patil SA, Guo K. Recent progress on microbial electrosynthesis reactors and strategies to enhance the reactor performance. Biochem Eng J 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bej.2022.108745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
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5
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Influence of electrode surface charge on current production by Geobacter sulfurreducens microbial anodes. Bioelectrochemistry 2022; 147:108213. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2022.108213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Wang S, Adekunle A, Raghavan V. Bioelectrochemical systems-based metal removal and recovery from wastewater and polluted soil: Key factors, development, and perspective. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 317:115333. [PMID: 35617867 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.115333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Bioelectrochemical systems (BES) are considered efficient and sustainable technologies for bioenergy generation and simultaneously removal/recovery metal (loid)s from soil and wastewater. However, several current challenges of BES-based metal removal and recovery, especially concentrating target metals from complex contaminated wastewater or soil and their economic feasibility of engineering applications. This review summarized the applications of BES-based metal removal and recovery systems from wastewater and contaminated soil and evaluated their performances on electricity generation and metal removal/recovery efficiency. In addition, an in depth review of several key parameters (BES configurations, electrodes, catalysts, metal concentration, pH value, substrate categories, etc.) of BES-based metal removal and recovery was carried out to facilitate a deep understanding of their development and to suggest strategies for scaling up their specific application fields. Finally, the future intervention on multifunctional BES to improve their performances of mental removal and recovery were revealed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuyao Wang
- Bioresource Engineering, McGill University, 21111 Lakeshore Road, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC, H9X 3V9, Canada.
| | - Ademola Adekunle
- National Research Council of Canada, 6100 Avenue Royalmount, Montréal, QC, H4P 2R2, Canada.
| | - Vijaya Raghavan
- Bioresource Engineering, McGill University, 21111 Lakeshore Road, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC, H9X 3V9, Canada.
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7
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Abdollahi M, Al Sbei S, Rosenbaum MA, Harnisch F. The oxygen dilemma: The challenge of the anode reaction for microbial electrosynthesis from CO2. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:947550. [PMID: 35992647 PMCID: PMC9381829 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.947550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Microbial electrosynthesis (MES) from CO2 provides chemicals and fuels by driving the metabolism of microorganisms with electrons from cathodes in bioelectrochemical systems. These microorganisms are usually strictly anaerobic. At the same time, the anode reaction of bioelectrochemical systems is almost exclusively water splitting through the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). This creates a dilemma for MES development and engineering. Oxygen penetration to the cathode has to be excluded to avoid toxicity and efficiency losses while assuring low resistance. We show that this dilemma derives a strong need to identify novel reactor designs when using the OER as an anode reaction or to fully replace OER with alternative oxidation reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maliheh Abdollahi
- Department of Environmental Microbiology, UFZ-Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Sara Al Sbei
- Bio Pilot Plant, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans-Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Miriam A. Rosenbaum
- Bio Pilot Plant, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans-Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Falk Harnisch
- Department of Environmental Microbiology, UFZ-Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Leipzig, Germany
- *Correspondence: Falk Harnisch,
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8
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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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9
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Bajracharya S, Krige A, Matsakas L, Rova U, Christakopoulos P. Advances in cathode designs and reactor configurations of microbial electrosynthesis systems to facilitate gas electro-fermentation. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2022; 354:127178. [PMID: 35436538 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2022.127178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In gas fermentation, a range of chemolithoautotrophs fix single-carbon (C1) gases (CO2 and CO) when H2 or other reductants are available. Microbial electrosynthesis (MES) enables CO2 reduction by generating H2 or reducing equivalents with the sole input of renewable electricity. A combined approach as gas electro-fermentation is attractive for the sustainable production of biofuels and biochemicals utilizing C1 gases. Various platform compounds such as acetate, butyrate, caproate, ethanol, butanol and bioplastics can be produced. However, technological challenges pertaining to the microbe-material interactions such as poor gas-liquid mass transfer, low biomass and biofilm coverage on cathode, low productivities still exist. We are presenting a review on latest developments in MES focusing on the configuration and design of cathodes that can address the challenges and support the gas electro-fermentation. Overall, the opportunities for advancing CO and CO2-based biochemicals and biofuels production in MES with suitable cathode/reactor design are prospected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suman Bajracharya
- Biochemical Process Engineering, Division of Chemical Engineering, Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, 971-87 Luleå, Sweden.
| | - Adolf Krige
- Biochemical Process Engineering, Division of Chemical Engineering, Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, 971-87 Luleå, Sweden
| | - Leonidas Matsakas
- Biochemical Process Engineering, Division of Chemical Engineering, Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, 971-87 Luleå, Sweden
| | - Ulrika Rova
- Biochemical Process Engineering, Division of Chemical Engineering, Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, 971-87 Luleå, Sweden
| | - Paul Christakopoulos
- Biochemical Process Engineering, Division of Chemical Engineering, Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, 971-87 Luleå, Sweden
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10
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Fathima A, Liam YZ, Ilankoon I, Chong MN. Data-driven and validated dimensional analysis for rational scale-up of a dual-chamber microbial fuel cell system for water-energy nexus exploitation. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2022; 354:127233. [PMID: 35489574 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2022.127233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Mathematical modelling of microbial fuel cells (MFC) facilitates their scale-up by maintaining dimensionless parameters across reactor volumes for consistent performance. This study developed data-driven correlations to predict areal power density for a batch-fed dual-chamber MFC using hybridised first-principle mechanistic model and Buckingham's Pi theorem. The established correlations were validated using experimentally-derived data for pre-enriched electroactive biofilm from mixed cultures. The biochemical model parameters are infilled with stoichiometric and thermodynamics estimations. Results showed that the correlations using logistic kinetics (Nash-Sutcliffe Efficiency, NSE = 0.59) outperformed Monod kinetics (NSE = 0.52) as the latter was not suitable for representing the first-order biochemical kinetics under limited substrate conditions. Sensitivity analysis on varying pH and bicarbonate concentration improved model predictions by ± 50%, though relative absolute error was ± 20% due to inherent error of estimated biochemical parameters. The application of hybridised approach for modelling MFC provides renewed perspectives for their rational design and scale-up applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arshia Fathima
- School of Engineering, Chemical Engineering Discipline, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Bandar Sunway, Selangor Darul Ehsan 47500, Malaysia
| | - Yong Zheng Liam
- School of Engineering, Chemical Engineering Discipline, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Bandar Sunway, Selangor Darul Ehsan 47500, Malaysia
| | - Imsk Ilankoon
- School of Engineering, Chemical Engineering Discipline, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Bandar Sunway, Selangor Darul Ehsan 47500, Malaysia
| | - Meng Nan Chong
- School of Engineering, Chemical Engineering Discipline, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Bandar Sunway, Selangor Darul Ehsan 47500, Malaysia.
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11
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Fitriana HN, Lee S, Kim HS, Lee J, Lee Y, Lee JS, Park H, Ko CH, Lim SY, Lee SY. Enhanced CO 2 electroconversion of Rhodobacter sphaeroides by cobalt-phosphate complex assisted water oxidation. Bioelectrochemistry 2022; 145:108102. [PMID: 35338862 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2022.108102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
CO2 can be a next generation feedstock for electricity-driven bioproduction due to its abundance and availability. Microbial electrosynthesis (MES), a promising technique for CO2 electroconversion, provides an attractive route for the production of valuable products from CO2, but issues surrounding efficiency and reasonable productivity should be resolved. Improving the anode performance for water oxidation under neutral pH is one of the most important aspects to advance current MES. Here, we introduce cobalt-phosphate (Co-Pi) assisted water oxidation at the counter electrode (i.e., anode) to upgrade the MES performance at pH 7.0. We show that CO2 can be converted by photochemoautotrophic bacterium, Rhodobacter sphaeroides into organic acids and carotenoids in the MES reactor. Planktonic cells of R. sphareroides in the Co-Pi anode equipped MES reactor was ca. 1.5-fold higher than in the control condition (w/o Co-Pi). The faradaic efficiency of the Co-Pi anode equipped MES reactor was remarkably higher (58.3%) than that of the bare anode (27.8%). While the system can improve the CO2 electroconversion nonetheless there are some further optimizations are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hana Nur Fitriana
- Gwangju Bio/Energy R&D Center, Korea Institute of Energy Research, 61003 Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Sangmin Lee
- Gwangju Bio/Energy R&D Center, Korea Institute of Energy Research, 61003 Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Hui Su Kim
- Department of Advanced Chemicals & Engineering, Chonnam National University, 61186 Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Jiye Lee
- Gwangju Bio/Energy R&D Center, Korea Institute of Energy Research, 61003 Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Yurim Lee
- Interdisciplinary Program of Agriculture and Life Science, Chonnam National University, 61186 Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Jin-Suk Lee
- Gwangju Bio/Energy R&D Center, Korea Institute of Energy Research, 61003 Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Hyojung Park
- Gwangju Bio/Energy R&D Center, Korea Institute of Energy Research, 61003 Gwangju, South Korea; Bioremediation Team, National Institute of Agricultural Sciences, 55365 Jeollabuk-do, South Korea
| | - Chang Hyun Ko
- Department of Advanced Chemicals & Engineering, Chonnam National University, 61186 Gwangju, South Korea; School of Chemical Engineering, Chonnam National University, 61186 Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Sung Yul Lim
- Department of Chemistry, Kyung Hee University, 02447 Seoul, South Korea
| | - Soo Youn Lee
- Gwangju Bio/Energy R&D Center, Korea Institute of Energy Research, 61003 Gwangju, South Korea.
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12
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Empower C1: Combination of Electrochemistry and Biology to Convert C1 Compounds. ADVANCES IN BIOCHEMICAL ENGINEERING/BIOTECHNOLOGY 2021; 180:213-241. [PMID: 34518909 DOI: 10.1007/10_2021_171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The idea to somehow combine electrical current and biological systems is not new. It was subject of research as well as of science fiction literature for decades. Nowadays, in times of limited resources and the need to capture greenhouse gases like CO2, this combination gains increasing interest, since it might allow to use C1 compounds and highly oxidized compounds as substrate for microbial production by "activating" them with additional electrons. In this chapter, different possibilities to combine electrochemistry and biology to convert C1 compounds into useful products will be discussed. The chapter first shows electrochemical conversion of C1 compounds, allowing the use of the product as substrate for a subsequent biosynthesis in uncoupled systems, further leads to coupled systems of biology and electrochemical conversion, and finally reaches the discipline of bioelectrosynthesis, where electrical current and C1 compounds are directly converted by microorganisms or enzymes. This overview will give an idea about the potentials and challenges of combining electrochemistry and biology to convert C1 molecules.
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13
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Cabau-Peinado O, Straathof AJJ, Jourdin L. A General Model for Biofilm-Driven Microbial Electrosynthesis of Carboxylates From CO 2. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:669218. [PMID: 34149654 PMCID: PMC8211901 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.669218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Up to now, computational modeling of microbial electrosynthesis (MES) has been underexplored, but is necessary to achieve breakthrough understanding of the process-limiting steps. Here, a general framework for modeling microbial kinetics in a MES reactor is presented. A thermodynamic approach is used to link microbial metabolism to the electrochemical reduction of an intracellular mediator, allowing to predict cellular growth and current consumption. The model accounts for CO2 reduction to acetate, and further elongation to n-butyrate and n-caproate. Simulation results were compared with experimental data obtained from different sources and proved the model is able to successfully describe microbial kinetics (growth, chain elongation, and product inhibition) and reactor performance (current density, organics titer). The capacity of the model to simulate different system configurations is also shown. Model results suggest CO2 dissolved concentration might be limiting existing MES systems, and highlight the importance of the delivery method utilized to supply it. Simulation results also indicate that for biofilm-driven reactors, continuous mode significantly enhances microbial growth and might allow denser biofilms to be formed and higher current densities to be achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oriol Cabau-Peinado
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Delft University of Technology, Delft, Netherlands
| | - Adrie J J Straathof
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Delft University of Technology, Delft, Netherlands
| | - Ludovic Jourdin
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Delft University of Technology, Delft, Netherlands
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14
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Status Update on Bioelectrochemical Systems: Prospects for Carbon Electrode Design and Scale-Up. Catalysts 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/catal11020278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Bioelectrochemical systems (BES) employ enzymes, subcellular structures or whole electroactive microorganisms as biocatalysts for energy conversion purposes, such as the electrosynthesis of value-added chemicals and power generation in biofuel cells. From a bioelectrode engineering viewpoint, customizable nanostructured carbonaceous matrices have recently received considerable scientific attention as promising electrode supports due to their unique properties attractive to bioelectronics devices. This review demonstrates the latest advances in the application of nano- and micro-structured carbon electrode assemblies in BES. Specifically, in view of the gradual increase in the commercial applicability of these systems, we aim to address the stability and scalability of different BES designs and to highlight their potential roles in a circular bioeconomy.
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15
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Abel AJ, Clark DS. A Comprehensive Modeling Analysis of Formate-Mediated Microbial Electrosynthesis*. CHEMSUSCHEM 2021; 14:344-355. [PMID: 32996287 DOI: 10.1002/cssc.202002079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Mediated microbial electrosynthesis (MES) represents a promising strategy for the capture and conversion of CO2 into carbon-based products. We describe the development and application of a comprehensive multiphysics model to analyze a formate-mediated MES reactor. The model shows that this system can achieve a biomass productivity of ∼1.7 g L-1 h-1 but is limited by a competitive trade-off between O2 gas/liquid mass transfer and CO2 transport to the cathode. Synthetic metabolic strategies are evaluated for formatotrophic growth, which can enable an energy efficiency of ∼21 %, a 30 % improvement over the Calvin cycle. However, carbon utilization efficiency is only ∼10 % in the best cases due to a futile CO2 cycle, so gas recycling will be necessary for greater efficiency. Finally, separating electrochemical and microbial processes into separate reactors enables a higher biomass productivity of ∼2.4 g L-1 h-1 . The mediated MES model and analysis presented here can guide process design for conversion of CO2 into renewable chemical feedstocks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony J Abel
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Douglas S Clark
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
- Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
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Extracellular Electrons Powered Microbial CO2 Upgrading: Microbial Electrosynthesis and Artificial Photosynthesis. ADVANCES IN BIOCHEMICAL ENGINEERING/BIOTECHNOLOGY 2021; 180:243-271. [DOI: 10.1007/10_2021_179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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17
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Jourdin L, Burdyny T. Microbial Electrosynthesis: Where Do We Go from Here? Trends Biotechnol 2020; 39:359-369. [PMID: 33279279 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2020.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The valorization of CO2 to valuable products via microbial electrosynthesis (MES) is a technology transcending the disciplines of microbiology, (electro)chemistry, and engineering, bringing opportunities and challenges. As the field looks to the future, further emphasis is expected to be placed on engineering efficient reactors for biocatalysts, to thrive and overcome factors which may be limiting performance. Meanwhile, ample opportunities exist to take the lessons learned in traditional and adjacent electrochemical fields to shortcut learning curves. As the technology transitions into the next decade, research into robust and adaptable biocatalysts will then be necessary as reactors shape into larger and more efficient configurations, as well as presenting more extreme temperature, salinity, and pressure conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludovic Jourdin
- Department of Biotechnology, Delft University of Technology, 2629 HZ Delft, The Netherlands.
| | - Thomas Burdyny
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Delft University of Technology, 2629 HZ Delft, The Netherlands
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Völler D, Wirth V, Ehret R. Evaluation of Bioelectromethanogenesis Part II: Environmental Impact. CHEM-ING-TECH 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/cite.201900182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dominic Völler
- Provadis School of International Management and Technology AG, Chemical Engineering Industrial Park Höchst, Building B845 65926 Frankfurt am Main Germany
| | - Vanessa Wirth
- Provadis School of International Management and Technology AG, Chemical Engineering Industrial Park Höchst, Building B845 65926 Frankfurt am Main Germany
| | - Ralf Ehret
- Provadis School of International Management and Technology AG, Chemical Engineering Industrial Park Höchst, Building B845 65926 Frankfurt am Main Germany
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Mayr JC, Rosa LFM, Klinger N, Grosch J, Harnisch F, Spiess AC. Response-Surface-Optimized and Scaled-Up Microbial Electrosynthesis of Chiral Alcohols. CHEMSUSCHEM 2020; 13:1808-1816. [PMID: 31951080 PMCID: PMC7187473 DOI: 10.1002/cssc.201903428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Revised: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
A variety of enzymes can be easily incorporated and overexpressed within Escherichia coli cells by plasmids, making it an ideal chassis for bioelectrosynthesis. It has recently been demonstrated that microbial electrosynthesis (MES) of chiral alcohols is possible by using genetically modified E. coli with plasmid-incorporated and overexpressed enzymes and methyl viologen as mediator for electron transfer. This model system, using NADPH-dependent alcohol dehydrogenase from Lactobacillus brevis to convert acetophenone into (R)-1-phenylethanol, is assessed by using a design of experiment (DoE) approach. Process optimization is achieved with a 2.4-fold increased yield of 94±7 %, a 3.9-fold increased reaction rate of 324±67 μm h-1 , and a coulombic efficiency of up to 68±7 %, while maintaining an excellent enantioselectivity of >99 %. Subsequent scale-up to 1 L by using electrobioreactors under batch and fed-batch conditions increases the titer of (R)-1-phenylethanol to 12.8±2.0 mm and paves the way to further develop E. coli into a universal chassis for MES in a standard biotechnological process environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeannine C. Mayr
- Institute of Biochemical EngineeringTechnische Universität BraunschweigRebenring 5638106BraunschweigGermany
- Braunschweig Integrated Centre of Systems Biology (BRICS)Technische Universität BraunschweigRebenring 5638106BraunschweigGermany
| | - Luis F. M. Rosa
- Department of Environmental MicrobiologyHelmholtz-Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ)Permoserstrasse 1504318LeipzigGermany
| | - Natalia Klinger
- Institute of Biochemical EngineeringTechnische Universität BraunschweigRebenring 5638106BraunschweigGermany
| | - Jan‐Hendrik Grosch
- Institute of Biochemical EngineeringTechnische Universität BraunschweigRebenring 5638106BraunschweigGermany
- Braunschweig Integrated Centre of Systems Biology (BRICS)Technische Universität BraunschweigRebenring 5638106BraunschweigGermany
- Center of Pharmaceutical Engineering (PVZ)Technische Universität BraunschweigFranz-Liszt-Strasse 35a38106BraunschweigGermany
| | - Falk Harnisch
- Department of Environmental MicrobiologyHelmholtz-Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ)Permoserstrasse 1504318LeipzigGermany
| | - Antje C. Spiess
- Institute of Biochemical EngineeringTechnische Universität BraunschweigRebenring 5638106BraunschweigGermany
- Braunschweig Integrated Centre of Systems Biology (BRICS)Technische Universität BraunschweigRebenring 5638106BraunschweigGermany
- Center of Pharmaceutical Engineering (PVZ)Technische Universität BraunschweigFranz-Liszt-Strasse 35a38106BraunschweigGermany
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Daud SM, Daud WRW, Bakar MHA, Kim BH, Somalu MR, Muchtar A, Jahim JM, Muhammed Ali SA. Low-cost novel clay earthenware as separator in microbial electrochemical technology for power output improvement. Bioprocess Biosyst Eng 2020; 43:1369-1379. [DOI: 10.1007/s00449-020-02331-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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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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22
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Chen H, Dong F, Minteer SD. The progress and outlook of bioelectrocatalysis for the production of chemicals, fuels and materials. Nat Catal 2020. [DOI: 10.1038/s41929-019-0408-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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Enzmann F, Gronemeier D, Holtmann D. Evaluation of Bioelectromethanogenesis Part I: Energy Calculations. CHEM-ING-TECH 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/cite.201900106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Enzmann
- Evonik IndustriesTechnology and Infrastructure Rodenbacher Chaussee 4 63457 Hanau Germany
| | - Denise Gronemeier
- DECHEMA Research InstituteIndustrial Biotechnology Theodor-Heuss-Allee 25 60486 Frankfurt am Main Germany
| | - Dirk Holtmann
- DECHEMA Research InstituteIndustrial Biotechnology Theodor-Heuss-Allee 25 60486 Frankfurt am Main Germany
- Technische Hochschule MittelhessenInstitute of Bioprocess Engineering and Pharmaceutical Technology Wiesenstraße 14 35390 Gießen Germany
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Enzmann F, Gronemeier D, Holtmann D. Process stability examinations of bioelectromethanogenesis using a pure culture of M. maripaludis. Biochem Eng J 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bej.2019.107321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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25
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Enzmann F, Holtmann D. Rational Scale-Up of a methane producing bioelectrochemical reactor to 50 L pilot scale. Chem Eng Sci 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ces.2019.07.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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26
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Huang L, Tian F, Pan Y, Shan L, Shi Y, Logan BE. Mutual benefits of acetate and mixed tungsten and molybdenum for their efficient removal in 40 L microbial electrolysis cells. WATER RESEARCH 2019; 162:358-368. [PMID: 31295655 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2019.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Practical application of metallurgical microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) requires efficient removal of metals and organics in larger reactors. A 40 L cylindrical single-chamber MEC fed acetate was used to achieve high removals of W(VI) and Mo(VI). In the presence of both metals, there were nearly complete removals of W (97 ‒ 98%), Mo (98 ‒ 99%), and acetate (95 ‒ 96%), along with a low level of hydrogen production (0.0037-0.0039 L/L/d) at a hydraulic residence time (HRT) of 2 d (influent ratios of W:Mo:acetate of 0.5:1.0:24 mM). The final concentrations of these conditions were sufficient to meet national wastewater discharge standards. In the controls with individual metals or acetate, lower contaminant removals were obtained (W, 2 ‒ 4%; Mo, 3 ‒ 5%, acetate, 36 ‒ 39%). Metals removal in all cases was primarily due to the biocathodes rather than the bioanodes. The presence of metals decreased microbial diversity on the anodes and increased diversity on the cathodes, based on analysis at the phylum, class and genus levels, as a function of HRT and influent concentration. This study demonstrated the feasibility of larger-scale single-chamber MECs for efficient treatment of W and Mo, moving metallurgical MECs closer to commercialization for wastewater treatment of these two metals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liping Huang
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Ministry of Education (MOE), School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, 116024, China.
| | - Fuping Tian
- College of Chemistry, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Yuzhen Pan
- College of Chemistry, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Liyuan Shan
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Ministry of Education (MOE), School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Yong Shi
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Ministry of Education (MOE), School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Bruce E Logan
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
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Enzmann F, Stöckl M, Gronemeier D, Holtmann D. Insights in the anode chamber influences on cathodic bioelectromethanogenesis - systematic comparison of anode materials and anolytes. Eng Life Sci 2019; 19:795-804. [PMID: 32624972 PMCID: PMC6999415 DOI: 10.1002/elsc.201900126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Revised: 08/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Cathode and catholyte are usually optimized to improve microbial electrosynthesis process, whereas the anodic counter reaction was not systematically investigated and optimized for these applications yet. Nevertheless, the anolyte and especially the anode material can limit the cathodic bioelectrochemical process. This paper compares for the first time the performance of different anode materials as counter electrodes for a cathodic bioelectrochemical process, the bioelectromethanogenesis. It was observed that depending on the anode material the cathodic methane production varies from 0.96 µmol/d with a carbon fabric anode to 25.44 µmol/d with a carbon felt anode of the same geometrical surface area. The used anolyte also affected the methane production rate at the cathode. Especially, the pH of the anolyte showed an impact on the system; an anolyte with pH 5 produced up to 2.0 times more methane compared to one with pH 8.5. The proton availability is discussed as one reason for this effect. Although some of the measured effects cannot be explained completely so far this study advises researchers to strongly consider the anode impact during process development and optimization of a cathodic bioelectrochemical synthesis process.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Markus Stöckl
- DECHEMA Research Institute, Electrochemistry Frankfurt am Main Germany
| | - Denise Gronemeier
- DECHEMA Research Institute, Industrial Biotechnology Frankfurt am Main Germany
| | - Dirk Holtmann
- DECHEMA Research Institute, Industrial Biotechnology Frankfurt am Main Germany.,Institute of Bioprocess Engineering and Pharmaceutical Technology University of Applied Sciences MIttelhessen Giessen Germany
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Engel M, Holtmann D, Ulber R, Tippkötter N. Increased Biobutanol Production by Mediator‐Less Electro‐Fermentation. Biotechnol J 2018; 14:e1800514. [DOI: 10.1002/biot.201800514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2018] [Revised: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mareike Engel
- Bioprocess EngineeringUniversity of Kaiserslautern67663 KaiserslauternGermany
| | - Dirk Holtmann
- Industrial BiotechnologyDECHEMA Research Institute60486 Frankfurt am MainGermany
| | - Roland Ulber
- Bioprocess EngineeringUniversity of Kaiserslautern67663 KaiserslauternGermany
| | - Nils Tippkötter
- Bioprocess EngineeringUniversity of Applied Science AachenHeinrich‐Mußmann‐Straße 152428 JülichGermany
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