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Muhammad Nashafi A, Thiravetyan P, Dolphen R, Treesubsuntorn C. Using stacked pot connection of wetland microbial fuel cells to charge the battery: Potential and effecting factor. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 252:119066. [PMID: 38714219 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.119066] [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: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
In the practical application of wetland microbial fuel cells (WMFCs), suitable designs and stacked connection systems have consistently been employed to increase and harvest power generation. Our study compares different WMFCs designs and demonstrates that the cylinder pot design outperforms the small hanging pot design in terms of electrical energy production. Moreover, power generation from the cylinder pot can be further optimized through separator modification and stacked connections. The stacked WMFCs design exhibited no voltage reversal, with an average power output ranging from 0.03 ± 0.01 mW (single pot) to 0.11 ± 0.05 mW (stacked connection of 5 pots) over a 60-day operational period. Additionally, our study identifies distinct patterns in both anodic and cathodic physiochemical factors including electrical conductivity (EC), pH, and nitrate (NO3-), highlighting the significant influence of plant involvement on altering concentrations and levels in different electrode zones. The WMFCs bioelectricity production system, employing 15 pots stacked connections achieves an impressive maximum power density of 9.02 mW/m2. The system's practical application is evidenced by its ability to successfully power a DC-DC circuit and charge a 1.2 V AAA battery over a period of 30 h, achieving an average charging rate of 0.0.2 V per hour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azizuddin Muhammad Nashafi
- School of Bioresources and Technology, King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, Bangkok, 10150, Thailand
| | - Paitip Thiravetyan
- School of Bioresources and Technology, King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, Bangkok, 10150, Thailand
| | - Rujira Dolphen
- Pilot Plant Development and Training Institute, King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, Bangkok, 10150, Thailand
| | - Chairat Treesubsuntorn
- School of Bioresources and Technology, King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, Bangkok, 10150, Thailand.
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2
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Jadhav DA, Yu Z, Hussien M, Kim JH, Liu W, Eisa T, Sharma M, Vinayak V, Jang JK, Wilberforce Awotwe T, Wang A, Chae KJ. Paradigm shift in Nutrient-Energy-Water centered sustainable wastewater treatment system through synergy of bioelectrochemical system and anaerobic digestion. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2024; 396:130404. [PMID: 38336215 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2024.130404] [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: 12/02/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
With advancements in research and the necessity of improving the performance of bioelectrochemical system (BES), coupling anaerobic digestion (AD) with BES is crucial for energy gain from wastewater and bioremediation. Hybridization of BES-AD concept opens new avenues for pollutant degradation, carbon capture and nutrient-resource recovery from wastewater. The strength of merging BES-AD lies in synergy, and this approach was employed to differentiate fads from strategies with the potential for full-scale implementation and making it an energy-positive system. The integration of BES and AD system increases the overall performance and complexity of combined system and the cost of operation. From a technical standpoint, the primary determinants of BES-AD feasibility for field applications are the scalability and economic viability. High potential market for such integrated system attract industrial partners for more industrial trials and investment before commercialization. However, BES-AD with high energy efficacy and negative economics demands performance boost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dipak A Jadhav
- Department of Environmental Engineering, College of Ocean Science and Engineering, Korea Maritime and Ocean University, 727 Taejong-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan 49112, Republic of Korea; Interdisciplinary Major of Ocean Renewable Energy Engineering, Korea Maritime and Ocean University, 727 Taejong-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan 49112, Republic of Korea
| | - Zhe Yu
- State Key Lab of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518055, PR China
| | - Mohammed Hussien
- Department of Environmental Engineering, College of Ocean Science and Engineering, Korea Maritime and Ocean University, 727 Taejong-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan 49112, Republic of Korea; Interdisciplinary Major of Ocean Renewable Energy Engineering, Korea Maritime and Ocean University, 727 Taejong-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan 49112, Republic of Korea
| | - Ju-Hyeong Kim
- Department of Environmental Engineering, College of Ocean Science and Engineering, Korea Maritime and Ocean University, 727 Taejong-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan 49112, Republic of Korea; Interdisciplinary Major of Ocean Renewable Energy Engineering, Korea Maritime and Ocean University, 727 Taejong-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan 49112, Republic of Korea
| | - Wenzong Liu
- State Key Lab of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518055, PR China
| | - Tasnim Eisa
- Department of Environmental Engineering, College of Ocean Science and Engineering, Korea Maritime and Ocean University, 727 Taejong-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan 49112, Republic of Korea; Interdisciplinary Major of Ocean Renewable Energy Engineering, Korea Maritime and Ocean University, 727 Taejong-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan 49112, Republic of Korea
| | - Mukesh Sharma
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Vandana Vinayak
- Diatom Nanoengineering and Metabolism Laboratory (DNM), School of Applied Science, Dr. Hari Singh Gour Central University, Sagar, MP 470003, India
| | - Jae-Kyoung Jang
- National Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Agricultural Engineering Energy and Environmental Engineering Division, 310 Nongsaengmyeong-ro, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Tabbi Wilberforce Awotwe
- Department of Engineering, Faculty of Natural, Mathematical & Engineering Sciences, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Aijie Wang
- State Key Lab of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518055, PR China
| | - Kyu-Jung Chae
- Department of Environmental Engineering, College of Ocean Science and Engineering, Korea Maritime and Ocean University, 727 Taejong-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan 49112, Republic of Korea; Interdisciplinary Major of Ocean Renewable Energy Engineering, Korea Maritime and Ocean University, 727 Taejong-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan 49112, Republic of Korea.
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3
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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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Tong KTX, Tan IS, Foo HCY, Show PL, Lam MK, Wong MK. Sustainable circular biorefinery approach for novel building blocks and bioenergy production from algae using microbial fuel cell. Bioengineered 2023; 14:246-289. [PMID: 37482680 PMCID: PMC10367576 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2023.2236842] [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: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The imminent need for transition to a circular biorefinery using microbial fuel cells (MFC), based on the valorization of renewable resources, will ameliorate the carbon footprint induced by industrialization. MFC catalyzed by bioelectrochemical process drew significant attention initially for its exceptional potential for integrated production of biochemicals and bioenergy. Nonetheless, the associated costly bioproduct production and slow microbial kinetics have constrained its commercialization. This review encompasses the potential and development of macroalgal biomass as a substrate in the MFC system for L-lactic acid (L-LA) and bioelectricity generation. Besides, an insight into the state-of-the-art technological advancement in the MFC system is also deliberated in detail. Investigations in recent years have shown that MFC developed with different anolyte enhances power density from several µW/m2 up to 8160 mW/m2. Further, this review provides a plausible picture of macroalgal-based L-LA and bioelectricity circular biorefinery in the MFC system for future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Tian Xiang Tong
- Department of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Science, Curtin University Malaysia, Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Inn Shi Tan
- Department of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Science, Curtin University Malaysia, Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Henry Chee Yew Foo
- Department of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Science, Curtin University Malaysia, Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Pau Loke Show
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Subtropical Water Environment and Marine Biological Resources Protection, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Nottingham Malaysia, Semenyih, Malaysia
- Department of Sustainable Engineering, Saveetha School of Engineering, SIMATS, Chennai, India
| | - Man Kee Lam
- Chemical Engineering Department, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, Seri Iskandar, Perak, Malaysia
- HICoE-Centre for Biofuel and Biochemical Research, Institute of Self-Sustainable Building, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, Seri Iskandar, Perak, Malaysia
| | - Mee Kee Wong
- PETRONAS Research Sdn Bhd, Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia
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Mahmoodzadeh F, Navidjouy N, Alizadeh S, Rahimnejad M. Investigation of microbial fuel cell performance based on the nickel thin film modified electrodes. Sci Rep 2023; 13:20755. [PMID: 38007521 PMCID: PMC10676379 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-48290-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are a self-sustaining and environmentally friendly system for the simultaneous was tewater treatment and bioelectricity generation. The type and material of the electrode are critical factors that can influence the efficiency of this treatment process. In this study, graphite plates and carbon felt were modified through the electrodeposition of nickel followed by the formation of a biofilm, resulting in conductive bio-anode thin film electrodes with enhanced power generation capacity. The structural and morphological properties of the electrode surfaces were characterized using X-ray diffraction, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, elemental mapping, and field-emission scanning electron microscopy techniques. Maximum voltage, current density, and power generation were investigated using a dual-chamber MFC equipped with a Nafion 117 membrane and bio-nickel-doped carbon felt (bio-Ni@CF) and bio-nickel-doped graphite plate (bio-Ni@GP) electrodes under constant temperature conditions. The polarization and power curves obtained using different anode electrodes revealed that the maximum voltage, power and current density achieved with the bio-Ni@CF electrode were 468.0 mV, 130.72 mW/m2 and 760.0 mA/m2 respectively. Moreover, the modified electrodes demonstrated appropriate stability and resistance during successful runs. These results suggest that nickel-doped carbon-based electrodes can serve as suitable and stable supported catalysts and conductors for improving efficiency and increasing power generation in MFCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Mahmoodzadeh
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Nahid Navidjouy
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
| | - Saber Alizadeh
- Faculty of Chemistry, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, 65174-38683, Iran
| | - Mostafa Rahimnejad
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Biofuel and Renewable Energy Research Center, Babol Noshirvani University of Technology, Babol, Iran
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Unuofin JO, Iwarere SA, Daramola MO. Embracing the future of circular bio-enabled economy: unveiling the prospects of microbial fuel cells in achieving true sustainable energy. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:90547-90573. [PMID: 37480542 PMCID: PMC10439864 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-28717-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
Sustainable development and energy security, highlighted by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), necessitate the use of renewable and sustainable energy sources. However, upon careful evaluation of literature, we have discovered that many existing and emerging renewable energy systems (RESs) prioritize renewability over true sustainability. These systems not only suffer from performance inconsistencies and lack of scalability but also fall short in fully embodying the principles of sustainability and circular economy. To address this gap, we propose considering microbial fuel cells (MFCs) as a viable alternative and integral part of the renewable energy ecosystem. MFCs harness the omnipresence, abundance, and cost-effectiveness of their essential components, making them a promising candidate. Through our comprehensive analysis, we shed light on the limitations and advancements of this technology, which underscore the remarkable potential of MFCs to revolutionize our perception of clean, sustainable energy.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Onolame Unuofin
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20 Hatfield, Pretoria, 0028, South Africa.
| | - Samuel Ayodele Iwarere
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20 Hatfield, Pretoria, 0028, South Africa
| | - Michael Olawale Daramola
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20 Hatfield, Pretoria, 0028, South Africa
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Temirbekova A, Tekebayeva Z, Temirkhanov A, Yevneyeva D, Sadykov A, Meiramkulova K, Mkilima T, Abzhalelov A. Isolation and Characterization of Bacteria with High Electroactive Potential from Poultry Wastewater. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12040623. [PMID: 37106823 PMCID: PMC10135469 DOI: 10.3390/biology12040623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Natural resources are in short supply, and the ecosystem is being damaged as a result of the overuse of fossil fuels. The creation of novel technology is greatly desired for investigating renewable and sustainable energy sources. Microorganisms have received a lot of interest recently for their potential to transform organic waste into sustainable energy and high-value goods. New exoelectrogens that can transmit electrons to electrodes and remove specific wastewater contaminants are expected to be studied. In this study, we examined three distinct samples (as determined by chemical oxygen demand and pH) that can be used as anolytes to generate power in single-chamber and double-chamber microbial fuel cells using graphite electrodes. Wastewater from poultry farms was studied as an exoelectrogenic anolyte for microbial fuel cell power generation. The study examined 10 different bacterial strains, numbered A1 through A10. Due to their highly anticipated capacity to metabolize organic/inorganic chemicals, the diverse range of microorganisms found in poultry wastewater inspired us to investigate the viability of generating electricity using microbial fuel cells. From the investigated bacterial strains, the highest voltage outputs were produced by strains A1 (Lysinibacillus sphaericus) and A2 (Bacillus cereus), respectively, at 402 mV and 350 mV. Among the 10 different bacterial strains, strain A6 generated the least amount of electricity, measuring 35.03 mV. Furthermore, a maximum power density of 16.16 1.02 mW/m2 was achieved by the microbial fuel cell using strain A1, significantly outperforming the microbial fuel cell using a sterile medium. The strain A2 showed significant current and power densities of 35 1.12 mA/m2 and 12.25 1.05 mW/m2, respectively. Moreover, in the two representative strains, chemical oxygen demand removal and Coulombic efficiency were noted. Samples from the effluent anode chamber were taken in order to gauge the effectiveness of chemical oxygen demand removal. Wastewater had an initial chemical oxygen demand content of 350 mg/L on average. Strains A1 and A2 decomposed 94.28% and 91.71%, respectively, of the organic substrate, according to the chemical oxygen demand removal efficiency values after 72 h. Strains A1 and A2 had electron donor oxidation efficiencies for 72 h of 54.1% and 60.67%, respectively. The Coulombic efficiency increased as the chemical oxygen demand decreased, indicating greater microbial electroactivity. With representative strains A1 and A2, Coulombic efficiencies of 10% and 3.5%, respectively, were obtained in the microbial fuel cell. The findings of this study greatly advance the field as a viable source of power technology for alternative energy in the future, which is important given the depletion of natural resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aliya Temirbekova
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Republican Collection of Microorganisms, Ministry of Healthcare of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 13/1 Valikhanov Str, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
- Department of General Biology and Genomics, L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, Satpayev Str. 2, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Zhanar Tekebayeva
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Republican Collection of Microorganisms, Ministry of Healthcare of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 13/1 Valikhanov Str, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Aslan Temirkhanov
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Republican Collection of Microorganisms, Ministry of Healthcare of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 13/1 Valikhanov Str, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Dinara Yevneyeva
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Republican Collection of Microorganisms, Ministry of Healthcare of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 13/1 Valikhanov Str, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Azamat Sadykov
- LLP Astana Bioscience Business Centre, Sh. Kosshygululy Str. 21, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Kulyash Meiramkulova
- Department of Environmental Engineering and Management, L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, Satpayev Str. 2, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Timoth Mkilima
- Department of Civil Engineering, L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, Satpayev Str. 2, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Akhan Abzhalelov
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Republican Collection of Microorganisms, Ministry of Healthcare of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 13/1 Valikhanov Str, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
- Department of Management and Engineering in the Field of Environmental Protection, L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, Satpayev Str. 2, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
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Madondo NI, Rathilal S, Bakare BF, Tetteh EK. Effect of Electrode Spacing on the Performance of a Membrane-Less Microbial Fuel Cell with Magnetite as an Additive. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28062853. [PMID: 36985825 PMCID: PMC10058918 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28062853] [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: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
A microbial fuel cell (MFC) is a bioelectrochemical system that can be employed for the generation of electrical energy under microbial activity during wastewater treatment practices. The optimization of electrode spacing is perhaps key to enhancing the performance of an MFC. In this study, electrode spacing was evaluated to determine its effect on the performance of MFCs. The experimental work was conducted utilizing batch digesters with electrode spacings of 2.0 cm, 4.0 cm, 6.0 cm, and 8.0 cm. The results demonstrate that the performance of the MFC improved when the electrode spacing increased from 2.0 to 6.0 cm. However, the efficiency decreased after 6.0 cm. The digester with an electrode spacing of 6.0 cm enhanced the efficiency of the MFC, which led to smaller internal resistance and greater biogas production of 662.4 mL/g VSfed. The electrochemical efficiency analysis demonstrated higher coulombic efficiency (68.7%) and electrical conductivity (177.9 µS/cm) for the 6.0 cm, which was evident from the enrichment of electrochemically active microorganisms. With regards to toxic contaminant removal, the same digester also performed well, revealing removals of over 83% for chemical oxygen demand (COD), total solids (TS), total suspended solids (TSS), and volatile solids (VS). Therefore, these results indicate that electrode spacing is a factor affecting the performance of an MFC, with an electrode spacing of 6.0 cm revealing the greatest potential to maximize biogas generation and the degradability of wastewater biochemical matter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nhlanganiso Ivan Madondo
- Green Engineering Research Group, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, Durban University of Technology, Steve Biko Campus, S4 Level 1, Durban 4000, South Africa
| | - Sudesh Rathilal
- Green Engineering Research Group, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, Durban University of Technology, Steve Biko Campus, S4 Level 1, Durban 4000, South Africa
| | - Babatunde Femi Bakare
- Environmental Pollution and Remediation Research Group, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Mangosuthu University of Technology, P.O. Box 12363, Durban 4026, South Africa
| | - Emmanuel Kweinor Tetteh
- Green Engineering Research Group, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, Durban University of Technology, Steve Biko Campus, S4 Level 1, Durban 4000, South Africa
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Reinikovaite V, Zukauskas S, Zalneravicius R, Ratautaite V, Ramanavicius S, Bucinskas V, Vilkiene M, Ramanavicius A, Samukaite-Bubniene U. Assessment of Rhizobium anhuiense Bacteria as a Potential Biocatalyst for Microbial Biofuel Cell Design. BIOSENSORS 2022; 13:bios13010066. [PMID: 36671901 PMCID: PMC9855892 DOI: 10.3390/bios13010066] [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: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The development of microbial fuel cells based on electro-catalytic processes is among the novel topics, which are recently emerging in the sustainable development of energetic systems. Microbial fuel cells have emerged as unique biocatalytic systems, which transform the chemical energy accumulated in renewable organic fuels and at the same time reduce pollution from hazardous organic compounds. However, not all microorganisms involved in metabolic/catalytic processes generate sufficient redox potential. In this research, we have assessed the applicability of the microorganism Rhizobium anhuiense as a catalyst suitable for the design of microbial fuel cells. To improve the charge transfer, several redox mediators were tested, namely menadione, riboflavin, and 9,10-phenanthrenequinone (PQ). The best performance was determined for a Rhizobium anhuiense-based bio-anode mediated by menadione with a 0.385 mV open circuit potential and 5.5 μW/cm2 maximal power density at 0.35 mV, which generated 50 μA/cm2 anode current at the same potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktorija Reinikovaite
- Department of Physical Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry and Geosciences, Vilnius University, Naugarduko Str. 24, LT-03225 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Sarunas Zukauskas
- Department of Physical Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry and Geosciences, Vilnius University, Naugarduko Str. 24, LT-03225 Vilnius, Lithuania
- Department of Nanotechnology, Centre for Physical Sciences and Technology, Saulėtekio Av. 3, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Rokas Zalneravicius
- Department of Nanotechnology, Centre for Physical Sciences and Technology, Saulėtekio Av. 3, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Vilma Ratautaite
- Department of Physical Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry and Geosciences, Vilnius University, Naugarduko Str. 24, LT-03225 Vilnius, Lithuania
- Department of Nanotechnology, Centre for Physical Sciences and Technology, Saulėtekio Av. 3, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Simonas Ramanavicius
- Department of Physical Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry and Geosciences, Vilnius University, Naugarduko Str. 24, LT-03225 Vilnius, Lithuania
- Department of Electrochemical Material Science, Centre for Physical Sciences and Technology, Saulėtekio Av. 3, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Vytautas Bucinskas
- Department of Mechatronics, Robotics, and Digital Manufacturing, Faculty of Mechanics, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, J. Basanaviciaus Str. 28, LT-03224 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Monika Vilkiene
- Lithuanian Research Center for Agriculture and Forestry, Instituto Ave. 1, Akademija, LT-58344 Kėdainiai, Lithuania
| | - Arunas Ramanavicius
- Department of Physical Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry and Geosciences, Vilnius University, Naugarduko Str. 24, LT-03225 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Urte Samukaite-Bubniene
- Department of Physical Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry and Geosciences, Vilnius University, Naugarduko Str. 24, LT-03225 Vilnius, Lithuania
- Department of Nanotechnology, Centre for Physical Sciences and Technology, Saulėtekio Av. 3, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania
- Department of Mechatronics, Robotics, and Digital Manufacturing, Faculty of Mechanics, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, J. Basanaviciaus Str. 28, LT-03224 Vilnius, Lithuania
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Turco F, Garavaglia M, Van Houdt R, Hill P, Rawson FJ, Kovacs K. Synthetic Biology Toolbox, Including a Single-Plasmid CRISPR-Cas9 System to Biologically Engineer the Electrogenic, Metal-Resistant Bacterium Cupriavidus metallidurans CH34. ACS Synth Biol 2022; 11:3617-3628. [PMID: 36278822 PMCID: PMC9680026 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.2c00130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Cupriavidus metallidurans CH34 exhibits extraordinary metabolic versatility, including chemolithoautotrophic growth; degradation of BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene); high resistance to numerous metals; biomineralization of gold, platinum, silver, and uranium; and accumulation of polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB). These qualities make it a valuable host for biotechnological applications such as bioremediation, bioprocessing, and the generation of bioelectricity in microbial fuel cells (MFCs). However, the lack of genetic tools for strain development and studying its fundamental physiology represents a bottleneck to boosting its commercial applications. In this study, inducible and constitutive promoter libraries were built and characterized, providing the first comprehensive list of biological parts that can be used to regulate protein expression and optimize the CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing tools for this host. A single-plasmid CRISPR-Cas9 system that can be delivered by both conjugation and electroporation was developed, and its efficiency was demonstrated by successfully targeting the pyrE locus. The CRISPR-Cas9 system was next used to target candidate genes encoding type IV pili, hypothesized by us to be involved in extracellular electron transfer (EET) in this organism. Single and double deletion strains (ΔpilA, ΔpilE, and ΔpilAE) were successfully generated. Additionally, the CRISPR-Cas9 tool was validated for constructing genomic insertions (ΔpilAE::gfp and ΔpilAE::λPrgfp). Finally, as type IV pili are believed to play an important role in extracellular electron transfer to solid surfaces, C. metallidurans CH34 ΔpilAE was further studied by means of cyclic voltammetry using disposable screen-printed carbon electrodes. Under these conditions, we demonstrated that C. metallidurans CH34 could generate extracellular currents; however, no difference in the intensity of the current peaks was found in the ΔpilAE double deletion strain when compared to the wild type. This finding suggests that the deleted type IV pili candidate genes are not involved in extracellular electron transfer under these conditions. Nevertheless, these experiments revealed the presence of different redox centers likely to be involved in both mediated electron transfer (MET) and direct electron transfer (DET), the first interpretation of extracellular electron transfer mechanisms in C. metallidurans CH34.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Turco
- School of Pharmacy,
Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, United Kingdom
| | - Marco Garavaglia
- BBSRC/EPSRC Synthetic Biology Research
Centre, School of Life Sciences, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, United Kingdom
| | - Rob Van Houdt
- Microbiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - Phil Hill
- School
of Biosciences, The University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Leicestershire LE12 5RD, United Kingdom
| | - Frankie J. Rawson
- Bioelectronics Laboratory, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, United Kingdom
| | - Katalin Kovacs
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics and Formulations,
School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, United Kingdom,
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11
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Benghernit M, Kameche M, Zerhouni FZ, Krim FZ, Sahraoui T, Innocent C. The study of the performance of a microbial fuel cell: a progress towards the improvement of low electrical bioenergy output by using an amplification system. Biotechnol Lett 2022; 44:1359-1378. [PMID: 36201132 DOI: 10.1007/s10529-022-03304-4] [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: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A microbial fuel cell (MFC) has been conceived and constructed for the treatment of the sheep manure wastes and their conversion into clean sustainable renewable energy. The aim of the present investigation was to examine the performance of this bioelectrochemical device, in breaking down the organic matter (pollutant removal) and simultaneously producing electricity. Furthermore, the objective was to enhance the low electric energy by using an adequate amplification system. RESULTS So, the chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal was increased by 58.7% with the MFC running for 10 days. However, this technology faces practical barriers as it produces low electrical energy. A power management system was therefore elaborated in this respect. It included the MFC, operational amplifier (OA), solar photovoltaic panel and a boost DC/DC converter. The low voltage output obtained was thus increased substantially using the OA prior to its polarization by the solar photovoltaic module. The amplified voltage was sufficiently enough and in consequence, utilized to feed a light emitting diode. The low output voltage 0.5 V was simply harvested, successfully boosted up to approximately 2 V (i.e. 4 times higher) and finally harnessed as a power supply. CONCLUSIONS The MFCs association shows the positive stacking effect successfully, when the cells were connected in parallel. This novel application is very interesting to utilize the natural bioenergy contained in wastes to supply small electronic devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Benghernit
- Laboratoire des Microsystèmes et Systèmes Embarqués, Université des Sciences et de la Technologie d'Oran, Mohamed-Boudiaf, M'Nouar, 1505, Oran, Algeria.,Laboratoire de Physico-Chimie des Matériaux, Catalyse et Environnement, Université des Sciences et de la Technologie d'Oran, Mohamed-Boudiaf, M'Nouar, 1505, Oran, Algeria.,Laboratoire des Piles A Combustibles, Université des Sciences et de la Technologie d'Oran, Mohamed-Boudiaf, M'Nouar, 1505, Oran, Algeria
| | - Mostefa Kameche
- Laboratoire de Physico-Chimie des Matériaux, Catalyse et Environnement, Université des Sciences et de la Technologie d'Oran, Mohamed-Boudiaf, M'Nouar, 1505, Oran, Algeria. .,Laboratoire des Piles A Combustibles, Université des Sciences et de la Technologie d'Oran, Mohamed-Boudiaf, M'Nouar, 1505, Oran, Algeria.
| | - Fatima Zohra Zerhouni
- Laboratoire des Microsystèmes et Systèmes Embarqués, Université des Sciences et de la Technologie d'Oran, Mohamed-Boudiaf, M'Nouar, 1505, Oran, Algeria
| | - Fatima Zohra Krim
- Laboratoire de Physico-Chimie des Matériaux, Catalyse et Environnement, Université des Sciences et de la Technologie d'Oran, Mohamed-Boudiaf, M'Nouar, 1505, Oran, Algeria.,Laboratoire des Piles A Combustibles, Université des Sciences et de la Technologie d'Oran, Mohamed-Boudiaf, M'Nouar, 1505, Oran, Algeria
| | - Tewfik Sahraoui
- Laboratoire de Matériaux et Microscopie Electronique à Balayage, Université des Sciences et de la Technologie d'Oran, Mohamed-Boudiaf, M'Nouar, 1505, Oran, Algeria
| | - Christophe Innocent
- Institut Européen des Membranes, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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12
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Koffi NJ, Okabe S. High electrical energy harvesting performance of an integrated microbial fuel cell and low voltage booster-rectifier system treating domestic wastewater. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2022; 359:127455. [PMID: 35710051 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2022.127455] [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: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
To harvest directly usable electrical energy from real domestic wastewater, a new power management system (PMS), transistor-based low voltage boosters followed by a voltage rectifier (LVBR), was developed and tested for its energy harvesting performance. Three air-cathode MFCs were individually linked with LVBs, which were electrically stacked in parallel and then connected with a single voltage rectifier (MFC-LVBR). The MFC-LVBR system could increase VMFCto 11.9 ± 0.6 V without voltage reversal, which was capable of charging a lithium-ion batteryand supercapacitor-based power banks. When the integrated MFC-LVBR system was linked with a lithium-ion battery, the highest normalized energy recovery (NERCOD) of 0.76 kWh/kg-COD (NERvolumeof 0.22 kWh/m3) was achieved with a minimal energy loss of 14.4%, whichwas much higher than those previously reported values.Furthermore, the electrical energy charged in the lithium-ion battery successfully powered a DC peristaltic pump requiring a minimum operating power of 0.46 W.
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Affiliation(s)
- N'Dah Joel Koffi
- Division of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Hokkaido University, North-13, West-8, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-8628, Japan
| | - Satoshi Okabe
- Division of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Hokkaido University, North-13, West-8, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-8628, Japan.
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13
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Antunes JMA, Silva MA, Salgueiro CA, Morgado L. Electron Flow From the Inner Membrane Towards the Cell Exterior in Geobacter sulfurreducens: Biochemical Characterization of Cytochrome CbcL. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:898015. [PMID: 35620088 PMCID: PMC9129911 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.898015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Exoelectrogenic microorganisms are in the spotlight due to their unique respiratory mechanisms and potential applications in distinct biotechnological fields, including bioremediation, bioenergy production and microbial electrosynthesis. These applications rely on the capability of these microorganisms to perform extracellular electron transfer, a mechanism that allows the bacteria to transfer electrons to the cell’s exterior by establishing functional interfaces between different multiheme cytochromes at the inner membrane, periplasmic space, and outer membrane. The multiheme cytochrome CbcL from Geobacter sulfurreducens is associated to the inner membrane and plays an essential role in the transfer of electrons to final electron acceptors with a low redox potential, as Fe(III) oxides and electrodes poised at −100 mV. CbcL has a transmembranar di-heme b-type cytochrome domain with six helices, linked to a periplasmic cytochrome domain with nine c-type heme groups. The complementary usage of ultraviolet-visible, circular dichroism and nuclear magnetic resonance permitted the structural and functional characterization of CbcL’s periplasmic domain. The protein was found to have a high percentage of disordered regions and its nine hemes are low-spin and all coordinated by two histidine residues. The apparent midpoint reduction potential of the CbcL periplasmic domain was determined, suggesting a thermodynamically favorable transfer of electrons to the putative redox partner in the periplasm − the triheme cytochrome PpcA. The establishment of a redox complex between the two proteins was confirmed by probing the electron transfer reaction and the molecular interactions between CbcL and PpcA. The results obtained show for the first time how electrons are injected into the periplasm of Geobacter sulfurreducens for subsequent transfer to the cell’s exterior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge M A Antunes
- Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal.,UCIBIO - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Chemistry Department, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal
| | - Marta A Silva
- Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal.,UCIBIO - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Chemistry Department, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal
| | - Carlos A Salgueiro
- Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal.,UCIBIO - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Chemistry Department, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal
| | - Leonor Morgado
- Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal.,UCIBIO - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Chemistry Department, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal
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14
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Joel Koffi N, Okabe S. Effect of poised cathodic potential on anodic ammonium nitrogen removal from domestic wastewater by air-cathode microbial fuel cells. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2022; 348:126807. [PMID: 35124217 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2022.126807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Performances of anodic ammonia oxidation have been investigated for various bioelectrochemical systems at a wide range of poised anodic potentials in the literature. The effect of poised cathodic potential on ammonium nitrogen (NH4+-N) and total nitrogen (TN, sum of NH4+-N, NO2--N, and NO3--N) removal from domestic wastewater by single chamber air-cathode microbial fuel cells (MFCs) was investigated. Poising the air-cathode potential at +0.7 V vs. SHE significantly increased current generation (from 11 ± 1 mA to 22.8 ± 5 mA) and oxygen permeation into the MFC through the air-cathode (from 75.4 ± 1.2 g-O2/m3/d to 151 ± 3.7 g-O2/m3/d), which consequently resulted in a high NH4+-N removal rate of 150 ± 13 g-NH4+-N/m3/d and TN removal rate of 63 ± 16 g-TN/m3/d. These high NH4+-N and TN removal rates could be attributed to the enhancement of dual respiratory pathways: the electrode-assisted anodic and aerobic NH4+ oxidation.
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Affiliation(s)
- N'dah Joel Koffi
- Division of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Hokkaido University, North-13, West-8, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-8628, Japan
| | - Satoshi Okabe
- Division of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Hokkaido University, North-13, West-8, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-8628, Japan.
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15
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Pugazhendi A, Jamal MT, Al-Mur BA, Jeyakumar RB. Bioaugmentation of electrogenic halophiles in the treatment of pharmaceutical industrial wastewater and energy production in microbial fuel cell under saline condition. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 288:132515. [PMID: 34627818 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.132515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Pharmaceutical wastewater with different toxic recalcitrant materials and high salinity requires a novel treatment technology before released into the environment. The present research details the treatment of pharmaceutical wastewater along with energy production using bioaugmentation of halophilic consortium in air cathode microbial fuel cell (ACMFC) under saline condition (4%). Organic load (OL) varied from 1.04 to 3.51 gCOD/L was studied in ACMFC. TCOD (Total Chemical Oxygen Demand) removal exhibited 65%, 72%, 84% and 89% at 1.04, 1.52, 2.01 and 2.52 gCOD/L OL respectively. SCOD (Soluble Chemical Oxygen Demand) removal of 60%, 66%, 76% and 82% was recorded during the operation of identical OL (1.04-2.52 gCOD/L). Prominent TCOD (92%), SCOD (90%), TSS (Total Suspended Solids) removal of 73% was attained at 3.02 gCOD/L OL with corresponding energy production of 896 mV (Current density (CD) - 554 mA/m2, Power density (PD)-505 mW/m2). CE (Columbic Efficiency) was 43%, 38%, 33%, 30%, 28% and 22% at different OL ranged between 1.04 and 3.51 gCOD/L. Increase in OL to 3.51 gCOD/L revealed decrement in TCOD (68%), SCOD (62%), TSS (52%) removal and energy production (CD-234 mA/m2, PD-165 mW/m2). Complete removal of phenol was accomplished at different OL in 6 (1.04, 1.52 gCOD/L) and 8 (2.01, 2.52 and 3.02 gCOD/L) days respectively. Ochrobactrum, Marinobacter, Bacillus and Rhodococcus were the dominant halophilic electrogenic strain in ACMFC at different OL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arulazhagan Pugazhendi
- Department of Marine Biology, Faculty of Marine Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; Center of Excellence in Environmental Studies, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 21589, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Mamdoh T Jamal
- Department of Marine Biology, Faculty of Marine Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Bandar A Al-Mur
- Department of Environmental Science, Faculty of Meteorology, Environment and Arid Land Agriculture, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rajesh Banu Jeyakumar
- Department of Life Sciences, Central University of Tamil Nadu, Neelakudy, Thiruvarur-610005, Tamil Nadu, India
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16
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Koffi NJ, Okabe S. Bioelectrochemical anoxic ammonium nitrogen removal by an MFC driven single chamber microbial electrolysis cell. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 274:129715. [PMID: 33529951 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.129715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2021] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Nitrogen removal from wastewater is an indispensable but highly energy-demanding process, and thus more energy-saving treatment processes are required. Here, we investigated the performance of bioelectrochemical ammonium nitrogen (NH4+-N) removal from real domestic wastewater without energy-intensive aeration by a single chamber microbial electrolysis cell (MEC) that was electrically powered by a double chamber microbial fuel cell (MFC). Anoxic NH4+-N oxidation and total nitrogen (TN) removal rates were determined at various applied voltages (0-1.2 V), provided by the MFC. The MEC achieved a NH4+-N oxidation rate of 151 ± 42 g NH4+-N m-3 d-1 and TN removal rate of 95 ± 42 g-TN m-3 d-1 without aeration at the applied voltage of 0.8 V (the anode potential Eanode = +0.633 ± 0.218 V vs. SHE). These removal rates were much higher than the previously reported values and conventional biological nitrogen removal processes. Open and closed-circuit MEC batch experiments confirmed that anoxic NH4+-N oxidation was an electrochemically mediated biological process (that is, an anode acted as an electron acceptor) and denitrification occurred simultaneously without NO2- and NO3- accumulation. Moreover, ex-situ15N tracer experiment and microbial community analysis revealed that anammox and heterotrophic denitrification mainly contributed to the TN removal. Thus, the bioelectrochemical anodic NH4+-N oxidation was coupled with anammox and denitrification in this MFC-assisted MEC system. Taken together, our MFC-driven single chamber MEC could be a high rate energy-saving nitrogen removal process without external carbon and energy input and high energy-demanding aeration.
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Affiliation(s)
- N'Dah Joel Koffi
- Division of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Hokkaido University, North-13, West-8, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-8628, Japan
| | - Satoshi Okabe
- Division of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Hokkaido University, North-13, West-8, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-8628, Japan.
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