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Cai Y, Li H, Qu G, Hu Y, Zou H, Zhao S, Cheng M, Chu X, Ren N. Responses of applied voltages on the archaea microbial distribution in sludge digestion. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 339:139639. [PMID: 37495052 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.139639] [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: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
As the development of urban population led to the increase of domestic water consumption, consequently the generation of surplus sludge (SS) produced increasingly during sewage treatment processes. In order to enhance the SS resource utilization efficiency, an electricity-assisted anaerobic digestion (EAAD) system was employed to examine the alterations in the digestion broth and the characteristics of gas production. Additionally, the response of applied voltages on the distribution of archaeal community near various electrodes within the sludge was explored. The results revealed that the application of high voltages exceeding 3.0 V hindered the CH4 production but stimulated the CO2 generation. Subsequently, both CH4 and CO2 production were impeded by the applied voltages. Furthermore, the increased voltages significantly decreased the abundance of Methanomicrobia, Methanosaeta, and Methanosarcina, which were crucial determinants of CH4 content in biogas. Notably, the excessively high voltages intensities caused the AD process to halt and even inactivate the microbial flora. Interestingly, the distribution characteristics of archaeal community were influenced not only by the voltages intensity but also exhibited variations between the anode and cathode regions. Moreover, as the applied voltage intensified, the discrepancy of responses between the cathode and anode regions became more pronounced, offering novel theoretical and technical foundations for the advancement of electricity-assisted with AD technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Cai
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China; National-Regional Engineering Center for Recovery of Waste Gases from Metallurgical and Chemical Industries, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China
| | - Heng Li
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China; Yunnan Yuntianhua Environmental Protection Technology Co., LTD, Kunming, 650228, Yunnan, China
| | - Guangfei Qu
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China; National-Regional Engineering Center for Recovery of Waste Gases from Metallurgical and Chemical Industries, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China.
| | - Yinghui Hu
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China; National-Regional Engineering Center for Recovery of Waste Gases from Metallurgical and Chemical Industries, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China
| | - Hongmei Zou
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China; National-Regional Engineering Center for Recovery of Waste Gases from Metallurgical and Chemical Industries, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China
| | - Shiqiang Zhao
- Yunnan Shunfeng Erhai Environmental Protection Technology Co., LTD, Dali, 671000, Yunnan, China
| | - Minhua Cheng
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China; National-Regional Engineering Center for Recovery of Waste Gases from Metallurgical and Chemical Industries, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China
| | - Xiaomei Chu
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China; National-Regional Engineering Center for Recovery of Waste Gases from Metallurgical and Chemical Industries, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China
| | - Nanqi Ren
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China; School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150000, Heilongjiang, China
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Wang B, Liu W, Liang B, Jiang J, Wang A. Microbial fingerprints of methanation in a hybrid electric-biological anaerobic digestion. WATER RESEARCH 2022; 226:119270. [PMID: 36323204 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2022.119270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Biomethane as a sustainable, alternative, and carbon-neutral renewable energy source to fossil fuels is highly needed to alleviate the global energy crisis and climate change. The conventional anaerobic digestion (AD) process for biomethane production from waste(water) streams has been widely employed while struggling with a low production rate, low biogas qualities, and frequent instability. The electric-biologically hybrid microbial electrochemical anaerobic digestion system (MEC-AD) prospects more stable and robust biomethane generation, which facilitates complex organic substrates degradation and mediates functional microbial populations by giving a small input power (commonly voltages < 1.0 V), mainly enhancing the communication between electroactive microorganisms and (electro)methanogens. Despite numerous bioreactor tests and studies that have been conducted, based on the MEC-AD systems, the integrated microbial fingerprints, and cooperation, accelerating substrate degradation, and biomethane production, have not been fully summarized. Herein, we present a comprehensive review of this novel developing biotechnology, beginning with the principles of MEC-AD. First, we examine the fundamentals, configurations, classifications, and influential factors of the whole system's performances (reactor types, applied voltages, temperatures, conductive materials, etc.,). Second, extracellular electron transfer either between diverse microbes or between microbes and electrodes for enhanced biomethane production are analyzed. Third, we further conclude (electro)methanogenesis, and microbial interactions, and construct ecological networks of microbial consortia in MEC-AD. Finally, future development and perspectives on MEC-AD for biomethane production are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Wang
- State Key Lab of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology Shenzhen, 518055 Shenzhen, China; Center for Electromicrobiology, Section for Microbiology, Department of Biology, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark; Department of Environmental and Resource Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Wenzong Liu
- State Key Lab of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology Shenzhen, 518055 Shenzhen, China.
| | - Bin Liang
- State Key Lab of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology Shenzhen, 518055 Shenzhen, China
| | - Jiandong Jiang
- Key Lab of Agricultural Environmental Microbiology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, 210095 Nanjing, China
| | - Aijie Wang
- State Key Lab of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology Shenzhen, 518055 Shenzhen, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Environmental Biotechnology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100085 Beijing, China
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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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Vassilev I, Dessì P, Puig S, Kokko M. Cathodic biofilms - A prerequisite for microbial electrosynthesis. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2022; 348:126788. [PMID: 35104648 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2022.126788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Cathodic biofilms have an important role in CO2 bio-reduction to carboxylic acids and biofuels in microbial electrosynthesis (MES) cells. However, robust and resilient electroactive biofilms for an efficient CO2 conversion are difficult to achieve. In this review, the fundamentals of cathodic biofilm formation, including energy conservation, electron transfer and development of catalytic biofilms, are presented. In addition, strategies for improving cathodic biofilm formation, such as the selection of electrode and carrier materials, cell design and operational conditions, are described. The knowledge gaps are individuated, and possible solutions are proposed to achieve stable and productive biofilms in MES cathodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Vassilev
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Tampere University, Korkeakoulunkatu 8, 33720, Tampere, Finland
| | - Paolo Dessì
- School of Chemistry and Energy Research Centre, Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland Galway, University Road, H91 TK33 Galway, Ireland
| | - Sebastià Puig
- LEQUIA. Institute of Environment. University of Girona, Carrer Maria Aurèlia Capmany 69, 17003, Girona, Spain
| | - Marika Kokko
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Tampere University, Korkeakoulunkatu 8, 33720, Tampere, Finland.
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5
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Aryal N, Zhang Y, Bajracharya S, Pant D, Chen X. Microbial electrochemical approaches of carbon dioxide utilization for biogas upgrading. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 291:132843. [PMID: 34767847 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.132843] [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: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Microbial electrochemical approach is an emerging technology for biogas upgrading through carbon dioxide (CO2) reduction and biomethane (or value-added products) production. There is limited literature critically reviewing the latest scientific developments on the bioelectrochemical system (BES) based biogas upgrading technologies, including CO2 reduction efficiency, methane (CH4) yields, reactor operating conditions, and electrode materials tested in the BES reactor. This review analyzes the reported performance and identifies crucial parameters considered for future optimization, which is currently missing. Further, the performances of BES approach of biogas upgrading under various operating settings in particular fed-batch, continuous mode in connection to the microbial dynamics and cathode materials have been thoroughly scrutinized and discussed. Additionally, other versatile application options associated with BES based biogas upgrading, such as resource recovery, are presented. Three-dimensional electrode materials have shown superior performance in supplying the electrons for the reduction of CO2 to CH4. Most of the studies on the biogas upgrading process conclude hydrogen (H2) mediated electron transfer mechanism in BES biogas upgrading.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabin Aryal
- Department of Microsystems, University of South-Eastern Norway, Borre, Norway.
| | - Yifeng Zhang
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Denmark
| | - Suman Bajracharya
- Biochemical Process Engineering Department, Luleå University of Technology, Sweden
| | - Deepak Pant
- Separation and Conversion Technology, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), Boeretang 200, Mol, 2400, Belgium
| | - Xuyuan Chen
- Department of Microsystems, University of South-Eastern Norway, Borre, Norway
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Brandão Lavender M, Pang S, Liu D, Jourdin L, Ter Heijne A. Reduced overpotential of methane-producing biocathodes: Effect of current and electrode storage capacity. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2022; 347:126650. [PMID: 34974095 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2021.126650] [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: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Cathode overpotential is a key factor in the energy efficiency of bioelectrochemical systems. In this study the aim is to demonstrate the role of applied current density and electrode storage capacity on cathode overpotential. To do so, eight reactors using capacitive granular activated carbon as cathode material were operated. Four reactors were controlled at -5 A m-2 and four at -10 A m-2. Additionally, to evaluate the electrode storage capacity, weekly charge/discharge tests were conducted for half of the reactors at each applied current density. Results show that cathode potential as high as -0.50 V vs. Ag/AgCl can be reached. Furthermore, the resulting low cathode overpotential is both dependent on applied current density and employment (or not) of charge/discharge tests: reactors at -10 A m-2 without charge/discharge regimes did not result in increasing cathode potential whereas reactors at -5 A m-2 and at -10 A m-2 with charge/discharge regimes did.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micaela Brandão Lavender
- Environmental Technology, Wageningen University, P.O. Box 17, Wageningen, The Netherlands; Paqell B.V., Reactorweg 301, 3542 AD Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Siqi Pang
- Environmental Technology, Wageningen University, P.O. Box 17, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Dandan Liu
- Environmental Technology, Wageningen University, P.O. Box 17, Wageningen, The Netherlands; Paqell B.V., Reactorweg 301, 3542 AD Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ludovic Jourdin
- Environmental Technology, Wageningen University, P.O. Box 17, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Annemiek Ter Heijne
- Environmental Technology, Wageningen University, P.O. Box 17, Wageningen, The Netherlands.
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7
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Zhao J, Li Y, Dong R. Recent progress towards in-situ biogas upgrading technologies. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 800:149667. [PMID: 34426339 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.149667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhao
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Yu Li
- College of Engineering, China Agricultural University, Qinghuadonglu No.17, 100083 Beijing, China.
| | - Renjie Dong
- College of Engineering, China Agricultural University, Qinghuadonglu No.17, 100083 Beijing, China.
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Pahunang RR, Buonerba A, Senatore V, Oliva G, Ouda M, Zarra T, Muñoz R, Puig S, Ballesteros FC, Li CW, Hasan SW, Belgiorno V, Naddeo V. Advances in technological control of greenhouse gas emissions from wastewater in the context of circular economy. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 792:148479. [PMID: 34465066 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.148479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
This review paper aims to identify the main sources of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and highlights the technologies developed for CO2 capture in this milieu. CO2 is emitted in all the operational units of conventional WWTPs and even after the disposal of treated effluents and sludges. CO2 emissions from wastewater can be captured or mitigated by several technologies such as the production of biochar from sludge, the application of constructed wetlands (CWs), the treatment of wastewater in microbial electrochemical processes (microbial electrosynthesis, MES; microbial electrolytic carbon capture, MECC; in microbial carbon capture, MCC), and via microalgal cultivation. Sludge-to-biochar and CW systems showed a high cost-effectiveness in the capture of CO2, while MES, MECC, MCC technologies, and microalgal cultivation offered efficient capture of CO2 with associate production of value-added by-products. At the state-of-the-art, these technologies, utilized for carbon capture and utilization from wastewater, require more research for further configuration, development and cost-effectiveness. Moreover, the integration of these technologies has a potential internal rate of return (IRR) that could equate the operation or provide additional revenue to wastewater management. In the context of circular economy, these carbon capture technologies will pave the way for new sustainable concepts of WWTPs, as an essential element for the mitigation of climate change fostering the transition to a decarbonised economy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rekich R Pahunang
- Environmental Engineering Program, National Graduate School of Engineering, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Antonio Buonerba
- Sanitary Environmental Engineering Division (SEED), Department of Civil Engineering, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, Fisciano, SA, Italy; Inter-University Centre for Prediction and Prevention of Relevant Hazards (Centro Universitario per la Previsione e Prevenzione Grandi Rischi, C.U.G.RI.), Via Giovanni Paolo II, Fisciano, SA, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Senatore
- Sanitary Environmental Engineering Division (SEED), Department of Civil Engineering, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, Fisciano, SA, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Oliva
- Sanitary Environmental Engineering Division (SEED), Department of Civil Engineering, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, Fisciano, SA, Italy
| | - Mariam Ouda
- Center for Membranes and Advanced Water Technology (CMAT), Department of Chemical Engineering, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Tiziano Zarra
- Sanitary Environmental Engineering Division (SEED), Department of Civil Engineering, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, Fisciano, SA, Italy
| | - Raul Muñoz
- Institute of Sustainable Processes, University of Valladolid, Dr. Mergelina s/n., Valladolid 47011, Spain
| | - Sebastià Puig
- LEQUiA, Institute of the Environment, University of Girona, C/Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 69, E-17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Florencio C Ballesteros
- Environmental Engineering Program, National Graduate School of Engineering, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines; Department of Chemical Engineering, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Chi-Wang Li
- Department of Water Resources and Environmental Engineering, Tamkang University, 151 Yingzhuan Road Tamsui District, New Taipei City 25137, Taiwan
| | - Shadi W Hasan
- Center for Membranes and Advanced Water Technology (CMAT), Department of Chemical Engineering, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Vincenzo Belgiorno
- Sanitary Environmental Engineering Division (SEED), Department of Civil Engineering, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, Fisciano, SA, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Naddeo
- Sanitary Environmental Engineering Division (SEED), Department of Civil Engineering, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, Fisciano, SA, Italy.
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Response of Methanogen Communities to the Elevation of Cathode Potentials in Bioelectrochemical Reactors Amended with Magnetite. Appl Environ Microbiol 2021; 87:e0148821. [PMID: 34432490 DOI: 10.1128/aem.01488-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Electromethanogenesis refers to the process whereby methanogens utilize current for the reduction of CO2 to CH4. Setting low cathode potentials is essential for this process. In this study, we tested if magnetite, an iron oxide mineral widespread in the environment, can facilitate the adaptation of methanogen communities to the elevation of cathode potentials in electrochemical reactors. Two-chamber electrochemical reactors were constructed with inoculants obtained from paddy field soil. We elevated cathode potentials stepwise from the initial -0.6 V versus the standard hydrogen electrode (SHE) to -0.5 V and then to -0.4 V over the 130 days of acclimation. Only weak current consumption and CH4 production were observed in the bioreactors without magnetite. However, significant current consumption and CH4 production were recorded in the magnetite bioreactors. The robustness of electroactivity of the magnetite bioreactors was not affected by the elevation of cathode potentials from -0.6 V to -0.4 V. However, the current consumption and CH4 production were halted in the bioreactors without magnetite when the cathode potentials were elevated to -0.4 V. Methanogens related to Methanospirillum were enriched on the cathode surfaces of magnetite bioreactors at -0.4 V, while Methanosarcina relatively dominated in the bioreactors without magnetite. Methanobacterium also increased in the magnetite bioreactors but stayed off electrodes at -0.4 V. Apparently, the magnetite greatly facilitates the development of biocathodes, and it appears that with the aid of magnetite, Methanospirillum spp. can adapt to the high cathode potentials, performing efficient electromethanogenesis. IMPORTANCE Converting CO2 to CH4 through bioelectrochemistry is a promising approach to the development of green energy biotechnology. This process, however, requires low cathode potentials, which entails a cost. In this study, we tested if magnetite, a conductive iron mineral, can facilitate the adaptation of methanogens to the elevation of cathode potentials. In two-chamber reactors constructed by using inoculants obtained from paddy field soil, biocathodes developed robustly in the presence of magnetite, whereas only weak activities in CH4 production and current consumption were observed in the bioreactors without magnetite. The elevation of cathode potentials did not affect the robustness of electroactivity of the magnetite bioreactors over the 130 days of acclimation. Methanospirillum strains were identified as the key methanogens associated with the cathode surfaces during the operation at high potentials. The findings reported in this study shed new light on the adaptation of methanogen communities to the elevated cathode potentials in the presence of magnetite.
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Park JG, Jiang D, Lee B, Jun HB. Towards the practical application of bioelectrochemical anaerobic digestion (BEAD): Insights into electrode materials, reactor configurations, and process designs. WATER RESEARCH 2020; 184:116214. [PMID: 32726737 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2020.116214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Anaerobic digestion (AD) is one of the most widely adopted bioenergy recovery technologies globally. Despite the wide adoption, AD has been challenged by the unstable performances caused by imbalanced substrate and/or electron availability among different reaction steps. Bioelectrochemical anaerobic digestion (BEAD) is a promising concept that has demonstrated potential for balancing the electron transfer rates and enhancing the methane yield in AD during shocks. While great progress has been made, a wide range of, and sometimes inconsistent engineering and technical strategies were attempted to improve BEAD. To consolidate past efforts and guide future development, a comprehensive review of the fundamental bioprocesses in BEAD is provided herein, followed by a critical evaluation of the engineering and technical optimizations attempted thus far. Further, a few novel directions and strategies that can enhance the performance and practicality of BEAD are proposed for future research to consider. This review and outlook aim to provide a fundamental understanding of BEAD and inspire new research ideas in AD and BEAD in a mechanism-informed fashion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Gyu Park
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea; Department of Environmental Engineering, Montana Technological University, Butte, MT 59701, USA
| | - Daqian Jiang
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Montana Technological University, Butte, MT 59701, USA
| | - Beom Lee
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea; Nature Engineering Co., LTD., 1 Chungdae-ro, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Hang-Bae Jun
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea.
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Cristiani L, Zeppilli M, Porcu C, Majone M. Ammonium Recovery and Biogas Upgrading in a Tubular Micro-Pilot Microbial Electrolysis Cell (MEC). Molecules 2020; 25:E2723. [PMID: 32545472 PMCID: PMC7356612 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25122723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Here, a 12-liter tubular microbial electrolysis cell (MEC) was developed as a post treatment unit for simultaneous biogas upgrading and ammonium recovery from the liquid effluent of an anaerobic digestion process. The MEC configuration adopted a cation exchange membrane to separate the inner anodic chamber and the external cathodic chamber, which were filled with graphite granules. The cathodic chamber performed the CO2 removal through the bioelectromethanogenesis reaction and alkalinity generation while the anodic oxidation of a synthetic fermentate partially sustained the energy demand of the process. Three different nitrogen load rates (73, 365, and 2229 mg N/Ld) were applied to the inner anodic chamber to test the performances of the whole process in terms of COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand) removal, CO2 removal, and nitrogen recovery. By maintaining the organic load rate at 2.55 g COD/Ld and the anodic chamber polarization at +0.2 V vs. SHE (Standard Hydrogen Electrode), the increase of the nitrogen load rate promoted the ammonium migration and recovery, i.e., the percentage of current counterbalanced by the ammonium migration increased from 1% to 100% by increasing the nitrogen load rate by 30-fold. The CO2 removal slightly increased during the three periods, and permitted the removal of 65% of the influent CO2, which corresponded to an average removal of 2.2 g CO2/Ld. During the operation with the higher nitrogen load rate, the MEC energy consumption, which was simultaneously used for the different operations, was lower than the selected benchmark technologies, i.e., 0.47 kW/N·m3 for CO2 removal and 0.88 kW·h/kg COD for COD oxidation were consumed by the MEC while the ammonium nitrogen recovery consumed 2.3 kW·h/kg N.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Cristiani
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rome Sapienza, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.Z.); (C.P.); (M.M.)
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Li J, Li Z, Xiao S, Fu Q, Kobayashi H, Zhang L, Liao Q, Zhu X. Startup cathode potentials determine electron transfer behaviours of biocathodes catalysing CO2 reduction to CH4 in microbial electrosynthesis. J CO2 UTIL 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcou.2019.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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13
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Zeppilli M, Paiano P, Villano M, Majone M. Anodic vs cathodic potentiostatic control of a methane producing microbial electrolysis cell aimed at biogas upgrading. Biochem Eng J 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bej.2019.107393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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14
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Batlle-Vilanova P, Rovira-Alsina L, Puig S, Balaguer MD, Icaran P, Monsalvo VM, Rogalla F, Colprim J. Biogas upgrading, CO 2 valorisation and economic revaluation of bioelectrochemical systems through anodic chlorine production in the framework of wastewater treatment plants. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 690:352-360. [PMID: 31299569 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.06.361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Revised: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 06/22/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Biogas production in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) plays a decisive role in the reduction of CO2 emissions and energy needs in the context of the water-energy nexus. The biogas obtained from sewage sludge digestion can be converted into biomethane by the use of biogas upgrading technologies. In this regard, an innovative water scrubbing based technology, known as ABAD Bioenergy® is presented and considered in this work. The effluents resulting from this system consist of biomethane and treated wastewater with a high CO2 concentration. Therefore, the study explores the feasibility of using this CO2-containing effluent in the cathode of a bioelectrochemical system (BES) for the transformation of CO2 into methane. Techno-economic assessment of the process is presented, including the valorisation of anode reactions through the production of chlorine compounds. Finally, the potential impacts of applying this technology in a WWTP operated by FCC Aqualia are (i) increasing biomethane production by 17.4%, (ii) decreasing CO2 content by 42.8% and (iii) producing over 60 ppm of chlorine compounds to disinfect all the treated wastewater of the plant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pau Batlle-Vilanova
- FCC Aqualia, Department of Innovation and Technology, Avda. del Camino de Santiago, 40, Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Rovira-Alsina
- LEQUiA, Institute of the Environment, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, Carrer Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 69, E-17003 Girona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Sebastià Puig
- LEQUiA, Institute of the Environment, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, Carrer Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 69, E-17003 Girona, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - M Dolors Balaguer
- LEQUiA, Institute of the Environment, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, Carrer Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 69, E-17003 Girona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Pilar Icaran
- FCC Aqualia, Department of Innovation and Technology, Avda. del Camino de Santiago, 40, Madrid, Spain
| | - Victor M Monsalvo
- FCC Aqualia, Department of Innovation and Technology, Avda. del Camino de Santiago, 40, Madrid, Spain
| | - Frank Rogalla
- FCC Aqualia, Department of Innovation and Technology, Avda. del Camino de Santiago, 40, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesús Colprim
- LEQUiA, Institute of the Environment, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, Carrer Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 69, E-17003 Girona, Catalonia, Spain
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15
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Liu C, Sun D, Zhao Z, Dang Y, Holmes DE. Methanothrix enhances biogas upgrading in microbial electrolysis cell via direct electron transfer. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2019; 291:121877. [PMID: 31376672 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2019.121877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 07/20/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Bioelectrochemical conversion of CO2 to CH4 is a promising way to increase the calorific value of biogas produced during anaerobic digestion. There are two groups of methanogens enriched in these systems, hydrogenotrophs and acetoclastic methanogens that can also directly accept electrons from an electrode or another microorganism. In this study, a microbial electrolysis cell (MEC) poised at -500 mV (vs. SHE) was operated for biogas upgrading. Methane content in the biogas increased from 71% to >90%, and 8.2% of the CO2 was converted to methane. Methanothrix, an acetoclastic methanogen that can participate in direct electron transfer (DET), and Azonexus, an acetate-oxidizing electrogen, were enriched on the cathode. Transcriptomics revealed that Methanothrix on the cathode were using the CO2 reduction pathway, while Methanothrix in the bulk sludge were using the acetate decarboxylation pathway for production of methane. These results show that stimulation of DET in MEC enhances biogas-upgrading processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanqi Liu
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Source Control Technology of Water Pollution, Engineering Research Center for Water Pollution Source Control and Eco-remediation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Dezhi Sun
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Source Control Technology of Water Pollution, Engineering Research Center for Water Pollution Source Control and Eco-remediation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Zhiqiang Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Dalian University of Technology), Ministry of Education, School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Yan Dang
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Source Control Technology of Water Pollution, Engineering Research Center for Water Pollution Source Control and Eco-remediation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China.
| | - Dawn E Holmes
- Department of Physical and Biological Sciences, Western New England University, 1215 Wilbraham Rd, Springfield, MA 01119, United States
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16
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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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17
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Ragab A, Katuri KP, Ali M, Saikaly PE. Evidence of Spatial Homogeneity in an Electromethanogenic Cathodic Microbial Community. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:1747. [PMID: 31417533 PMCID: PMC6685142 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.01747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Microbial electrosynthesis (MES) has been gaining considerable interest as the next step in the evolution of microbial electrochemical technologies. Understanding the niche biocathode environment and microbial community is critical for further developing this technology as the biocathode is key to product formation and efficiency. MES is generally operated to enrich a specific functional group (e.g., methanogens or homoacetogens) from a mixed-culture inoculum. However, due to differences in H2 and CO2 availability across the cathode surface, competition and syntrophy may lead to overall variability and significant beta-diversity within and between replicate reactors, which can affect performance reproducibility. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the distribution and potential spatial variability of the microbial communities in MES methanogenic biocathodes. Triplicate methanogenic biocathodes were enriched in microbial electrolysis cells for 5 months at an applied voltage of 0.7 V. They were then transferred to triplicate dual-chambered MES reactors and operated at -1.0 V vs. Ag/AgCl for six batches. At the end of the experiment, triplicate samples were taken at different positions (top, center, bottom) from each biocathode for a total of nine samples for total biomass protein analysis and 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. Microbial community analyses showed that the biocathodes were highly enriched with methanogens, especially the hydrogenotrophic methanogen family Methanobacteriaceae, Methanobacterium sp., and the mixotrophic Methanosarcina sp., with an overall core community representing > 97% of sequence reads in all samples. There was no statistically significant spatial variability (p > 0.05) observed in the distribution of these communities within and between the reactors. These results suggest deterministic community assembly and indicate the reproducibility of electromethanogenic biocathode communities, with implications for larger-scale reactors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ala'a Ragab
- Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division, Water Desalination and Reuse Center, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
| | - Krishna P Katuri
- Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division, Water Desalination and Reuse Center, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Ali
- Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division, Water Desalination and Reuse Center, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
| | - Pascal E Saikaly
- Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division, Water Desalination and Reuse Center, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
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18
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Perona-Vico E, Blasco-Gómez R, Colprim J, Puig S, Bañeras L. [NiFe]-hydrogenases are constitutively expressed in an enriched Methanobacterium sp. population during electromethanogenesis. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0215029. [PMID: 30973887 PMCID: PMC6459506 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0215029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Electromethanogenesis is the bioreduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) to methane (CH4) utilizing an electrode as electron donor. Some studies have reported the active participation of Methanobacterium sp. in electron capturing, although no conclusive results are available. In this study, we aimed at determining short-time changes in the expression levels of [NiFe]-hydrogenases (Eha, Ehb and Mvh), heterodisulfide reductase (Hdr), coenzyme F420-reducing [NiFe]-hydrogenase (Frh), and hydrogenase maturation protein (HypD), according to the electron flow in independently connected carbon cloth cathodes poised at– 800 mV vs. standard hydrogen electrode (SHE). Amplicon massive sequencing of cathode biofilm confirmed the presence of an enriched Methanobacterium sp. population (>70% of sequence reads), which remained in an active state (78% of cDNA reads), tagging this archaeon as the main methane producer in the system. Quantitative RT-PCR determinations of ehaB, ehbL, mvhA, hdrA, frhA, and hypD genes resulted in only slight (up to 1.5 fold) changes for four out of six genes analyzed when cells were exposed to open (disconnected) or closed (connected) electric circuit events. The presented results suggested that suspected mechanisms for electron capturing were not regulated at the transcriptional level in Methanobacterium sp. for short time exposures of the cells to connected-disconnected circuits. Additional tests are needed in order to confirm proteins that participate in electron capturing in Methanobacterium sp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabet Perona-Vico
- Molecular Microbial Ecology Group, Institute of Aquatic Ecology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
- * E-mail: (LB); (EPV)
| | | | - Jesús Colprim
- LEQUiA, Institute of the Environment, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Sebastià Puig
- LEQUiA, Institute of the Environment, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Lluis Bañeras
- Molecular Microbial Ecology Group, Institute of Aquatic Ecology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
- * E-mail: (LB); (EPV)
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19
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Isolation of Novel CO Converting Microorganism Using Zero Valent Iron for a Bioelectrochemical System (BES). BIOTECHNOL BIOPROC E 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s12257-018-0373-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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20
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Integration of Membrane Contactors and Bioelectrochemical Systems for CO2 Conversion to CH4. ENERGIES 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/en12030361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Anaerobic digestion of sewage sludge produces large amounts of CO2 which contribute to global CO2 emissions. Capture and conversion of CO2 into valuable products is a novel way to reduce CO2 emissions and valorize it. Membrane contactors can be used for CO2 capture in liquid media, while bioelectrochemical systems (BES) can valorize dissolved CO2 converting it to CH4, through electromethanogenesis (EMG). At the same time, EMG process, which requires electricity to drive the conversion, can be utilized to store electrical energy (eventually coming from renewables surplus) as methane. The study aims integrating the two technologies at a laboratory scale, using for the first time real wastewater as CO2 capture medium. Five replicate EMG-BES cells were built and operated individually at 0.7 V. They were fed with both synthetic and real wastewater, saturated with CO2 by membrane contactors. In a subsequent experimental step, four EMG-BES cells were electrical stacked in series while one was kept as reference. CH4 production reached 4.6 L CH4 m−2 d−1, in line with available literature data, at a specific energy consumption of 16–18 kWh m−3 CH4 (65% energy efficiency). Organic matter was removed from wastewater at approximately 80% efficiency. CO2 conversion efficiency was limited (0.3–3.7%), depending on the amount of CO2 injected in wastewater. Even though achieved performances are not yet competitive with other mature methanation technologies, key knowledge was gained on the integrated operation of membrane contactors and EMG-BES cells, setting the base for upscaling and future implementation of the technology.
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21
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Design, Operation, Modeling and Grid Integration of Power-to-Gas Bioelectrochemical Systems. ENERGIES 2018. [DOI: 10.3390/en11081947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This paper deals with the design, operation, modeling, and grid integration of bioelectrochemical systems (BES) for power-to-gas application, through an electromethanogenesis process. The paper objective is to show that BES-based power-to-gas energy storage is feasible on a large scale, showing a first approximation that goes from the BES design and operation to the electrical grid integration. It is the first study attempting to cover all aspects of a BES-based power-to-gas technology, on authors’ knowledge. Designed BES reactors were based on a modular architecture, suitable for a future scaling-up. They were operated in steady state for eight months, and continuously monitored in terms of power consumption, water treatment, and biomethane production, in order to obtain data for the following modeling activity. A black box linear model of the BES was computed by using least-square methods, and validated through comparison with collected experimental data. Afterwards, a BES stack was simulated through several series and parallel connections of reactors, in order to obtain higher power consumption and test the grid integration of a real application system. The renewable energy surplus and energy price variability were evaluated for the grid integration of the BES stack. The BES stack was then simulated as energy storage system during low energy price periods, and tested experimentally with a real time system.
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22
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Enzmann F, Mayer F, Rother M, Holtmann D. Methanogens: biochemical background and biotechnological applications. AMB Express 2018; 8:1. [PMID: 29302756 PMCID: PMC5754280 DOI: 10.1186/s13568-017-0531-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Since fossil sources for fuel and platform chemicals will become limited in the near future, it is important to develop new concepts for energy supply and production of basic reagents for chemical industry. One alternative to crude oil and fossil natural gas could be the biological conversion of CO2 or small organic molecules to methane via methanogenic archaea. This process has been known from biogas plants, but recently, new insights into the methanogenic metabolism, technical optimizations and new technology combinations were gained, which would allow moving beyond the mere conversion of biomass. In biogas plants, steps have been undertaken to increase yield and purity of the biogas, such as addition of hydrogen or metal granulate. Furthermore, the integration of electrodes led to the development of microbial electrosynthesis (MES). The idea behind this technique is to use CO2 and electrical power to generate methane via the microbial metabolism. This review summarizes the biochemical and metabolic background of methanogenesis as well as the latest technical applications of methanogens. As a result, it shall give a sufficient overview over the topic to both, biologists and engineers handling biological or bioelectrochemical methanogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Enzmann
- DECHEMA Research Institute, Industrial Biotechnology, Theodor-Heuss-Allee 25, 60486 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Florian Mayer
- DECHEMA Research Institute, Industrial Biotechnology, Theodor-Heuss-Allee 25, 60486 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Michael Rother
- Technische Universität Dresden, Institut für Mikrobiologie, Zellescher Weg 20b, 01217 Dresden, Germany
| | - Dirk Holtmann
- DECHEMA Research Institute, Industrial Biotechnology, Theodor-Heuss-Allee 25, 60486 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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23
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Blázquez E, Gabriel D, Baeza JA, Guisasola A. Evaluation of key parameters on simultaneous sulfate reduction and sulfide oxidation in an autotrophic biocathode. WATER RESEARCH 2017; 123:301-310. [PMID: 28675843 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2017.06.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2017] [Revised: 05/13/2017] [Accepted: 06/18/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Bioelectrochemical systems (BESs) are being studied as an alternative technology for the treatment of several kinds of wastewaters with a lack of electron donor such as high-strength sulfate wastewaters. This study evaluates different parameters that influence the simultaneous sulfate reduction and sulfide oxidation in an autotrophic biocathode: ion-exchange membrane (IEM), cathodic pH and cathode potential. Two different membranes were studied to evaluate sulfate and sulfide adsorption and diffusion from the cathode to the anode, observing that a cation-exchange membrane (CEM) widely decreased these effects. Three different cathode pH (5.5, 7 and 8.5) were studied in a long-term operation observing that pH = 7 was the optimal for sulfate removal, achieving reduction rates around 150 mg S-SO42- L-1 d-1. Microbial community analysis of the cathode biofilm demonstrated a high abundance of sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB, 67% at pH 7, 60% at pH 8.5 and 42% at pH 5.5), mainly Desulfovibrio sp. at pH 5.5 and 7 and Desulfonatronum sp. at pH 8.5. The cathode potential also was studied from -0.7 to -1.2 V vs. SHE achieving sulfate removal rates higher than 700 mg S-SO42- L-1 d-1 at cathode potentials from -1.0 to -1.2 V vs. SHE. Also, the highest cathodic recovery and the highest sulfur species imbalance were observed at a cathode potential of -1.0 V vs. SHE, which indicated a higher elemental sulfur production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enric Blázquez
- GENOCOV, Department of Chemical, Biological and Environmental Engineering, School of Engineering, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - David Gabriel
- GENOCOV, Department of Chemical, Biological and Environmental Engineering, School of Engineering, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan Antonio Baeza
- GENOCOV, Department of Chemical, Biological and Environmental Engineering, School of Engineering, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Albert Guisasola
- GENOCOV, Department of Chemical, Biological and Environmental Engineering, School of Engineering, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
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24
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Baek G, Kim J, Lee S, Lee C. Development of biocathode during repeated cycles of bioelectrochemical conversion of carbon dioxide to methane. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2017; 241:1201-1207. [PMID: 28688737 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2017.06.125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2017] [Revised: 06/18/2017] [Accepted: 06/22/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Functioning biocathodes are essential for electromethanogenesis. This study investigated the development of a biocathode from non-acclimated anaerobic sludge in an electromethanogenesis cell at a cathode potential of -0.7V (vs. standard hydrogen electrode) over four cycles of repeated batch operations. The CO2-to-CH4 conversion rate increased (to 97.7%) while the length of the lag phase decreased as the number of cycles increased, suggesting that a functioning biocathode developed during the repeated subculturing cycles. CO2-resupply test results suggested that the biocathode catalyzed the formation of CH4 via both direct and indirect (H2-mediated) electron transfer mechanisms. The biocathode archaeal community was dominated by the genus Methanobacterium, and most archaeal sequences (>89%) were affiliated with Methanobacterium palustre. The bacterial community was dominated by putative electroactive bacteria, with Arcobacter, which is rarely observed in biocathodes, forming the largest population. These electroactive bacteria were likely involved in electron transfer between the cathode and the methanogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gahyun Baek
- School of Urban and Environmental Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), 50 UNIST-gil, Eonyang-eup, Ulju-gun, Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinsu Kim
- School of Urban and Environmental Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), 50 UNIST-gil, Eonyang-eup, Ulju-gun, Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Seungyong Lee
- R&D Center, POSCO E&C Co., Ltd., 241 Incheon Tower-daero, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 22009, Republic of Korea
| | - Changsoo Lee
- School of Urban and Environmental Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), 50 UNIST-gil, Eonyang-eup, Ulju-gun, Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea.
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25
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Zhen G, Lu X, Kobayashi T, Su L, Kumar G, Bakonyi P, He Y, Sivagurunathan P, Nemestóthy N, Xu K, Zhao Y. Continuous micro-current stimulation to upgrade methanolic wastewater biodegradation and biomethane recovery in an upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactor. CHEMOSPHERE 2017; 180:229-238. [PMID: 28410503 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2017.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2016] [Revised: 03/31/2017] [Accepted: 04/02/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The dispersion of granules in upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactor represents a critical technical issue in methanolic wastewater treatment. In this study, the potentials of coupling a microbial electrolysis cell (MEC) into an UASB reactor for improving methanolic wastewater biodegradation, long-term process stability and biomethane recovery were evaluated. The results indicated that coupling a MEC system was capable of improving the overall performance of UASB reactor for methanolic wastewater treatment. The combined system maintained the comparatively higher methane yield and COD removal efficiency over the single UASB process through the entire process, with the methane production at the steady-state conditions approaching 1504.7 ± 92.2 mL-CH4 L-1-reactor d-1, around 10.1% higher than the control UASB (i.e. 1366.4 ± 71.0 mL-CH4 L-1-reactor d-1). The further characterizations verified that the input of external power source could stimulate the metabolic activity of microbes and reinforced the EPS secretion. The produced EPS interacted with Fe2+/3+ liberated during anodic corrosion of iron electrode to create a gel-like three-dimensional [-Fe-EPS-]n matrix, which promoted cell-cell cohesion and maintained the structural integrity of granules. Further observations via SEM and FISH analysis demonstrated that the use of bioelectrochemical stimulation promoted the growth and proliferation of microorganisms, which diversified the degradation routes of methanol, convert the wasted CO2 into methane and accordingly increased the process stability and methane productivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangyin Zhen
- Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Rd. 500, Shanghai, 200241, PR China; Center for Material Cycles and Waste Management Research, National Institute for Environmental Studies, 16-2 Onogawa, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8506, Japan.
| | - Xueqin Lu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8579, Japan.
| | - Takuro Kobayashi
- Center for Material Cycles and Waste Management Research, National Institute for Environmental Studies, 16-2 Onogawa, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8506, Japan
| | - Lianghu Su
- Nanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences of the Ministry of Environmental Protection, 210042, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Gopalakrishnan Kumar
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Daegu University, Jillyang, Gyeongsan, Gyeongbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Péter Bakonyi
- Research Institute on Bioengineering, Membrane Technology and Energetics, University of Pannonia, Egyetem ut 10, 8200, Veszprém, Hungary
| | - Yan He
- Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Rd. 500, Shanghai, 200241, PR China
| | - Periyasamy Sivagurunathan
- Center for Material Cycles and Waste Management Research, National Institute for Environmental Studies, 16-2 Onogawa, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8506, Japan
| | - Nándor Nemestóthy
- Research Institute on Bioengineering, Membrane Technology and Energetics, University of Pannonia, Egyetem ut 10, 8200, Veszprém, Hungary
| | - Kaiqin Xu
- Center for Material Cycles and Waste Management Research, National Institute for Environmental Studies, 16-2 Onogawa, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8506, Japan.
| | - Youcai Zhao
- The State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, PR China
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26
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Blasco-Gómez R, Batlle-Vilanova P, Villano M, Balaguer MD, Colprim J, Puig S. On the Edge of Research and Technological Application: A Critical Review of Electromethanogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:E874. [PMID: 28425974 PMCID: PMC5412455 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18040874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Revised: 03/22/2017] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The conversion of electrical current into methane (electromethanogenesis) by microbes represents one of the most promising applications of bioelectrochemical systems (BES). Electromethanogenesis provides a novel approach to waste treatment, carbon dioxide fixation and renewable energy storage into a chemically stable compound, such as methane. This has become an important area of research since it was first described, attracting different research groups worldwide. Basics of the process such as microorganisms involved and main reactions are now much better understood, and recent advances in BES configuration and electrode materials in lab-scale enhance the interest in this technology. However, there are still some gaps that need to be filled to move towards its application. Side reactions or scaling-up issues are clearly among the main challenges that need to be overcome to its further development. This review summarizes the recent advances made in the field of electromethanogenesis to address the main future challenges and opportunities of this novel process. In addition, the present fundamental knowledge is critically reviewed and some insights are provided to identify potential niche applications and help researchers to overcome current technological boundaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramiro Blasco-Gómez
- Laboratory of Chemical and Environmental Engineering (LEQUIA), Institute of the Environment, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, Carrer Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 69, E-17003 Girona, Spain.
| | - Pau Batlle-Vilanova
- Laboratory of Chemical and Environmental Engineering (LEQUIA), Institute of the Environment, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, Carrer Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 69, E-17003 Girona, Spain.
- Department of Innovation and Technology, FCC Aqualia, Balmes Street, 36, 6th Floor, 08007 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Marianna Villano
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Maria Dolors Balaguer
- Laboratory of Chemical and Environmental Engineering (LEQUIA), Institute of the Environment, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, Carrer Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 69, E-17003 Girona, Spain.
| | - Jesús Colprim
- Laboratory of Chemical and Environmental Engineering (LEQUIA), Institute of the Environment, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, Carrer Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 69, E-17003 Girona, Spain.
| | - Sebastià Puig
- Laboratory of Chemical and Environmental Engineering (LEQUIA), Institute of the Environment, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, Carrer Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 69, E-17003 Girona, Spain.
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Mixed Culture Biocathodes for Production of Hydrogen, Methane, and Carboxylates. ADVANCES IN BIOCHEMICAL ENGINEERING/BIOTECHNOLOGY 2017; 167:203-229. [DOI: 10.1007/10_2017_15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
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Schievano A, Pepé Sciarria T, Vanbroekhoven K, De Wever H, Puig S, Andersen SJ, Rabaey K, Pant D. Electro-Fermentation – Merging Electrochemistry with Fermentation in Industrial Applications. Trends Biotechnol 2016; 34:866-878. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2016.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 174] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2016] [Revised: 04/08/2016] [Accepted: 04/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Jourdin L, Freguia S, Flexer V, Keller J. Bringing High-Rate, CO2-Based Microbial Electrosynthesis Closer to Practical Implementation through Improved Electrode Design and Operating Conditions. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2016; 50:1982-9. [PMID: 26810392 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.5b04431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
The enhancement of microbial electrosynthesis (MES) of acetate from CO2 to performance levels that could potentially support practical implementations of the technology must go through the optimization of key design and operating conditions. We report that higher proton availability drastically increases the acetate production rate, with pH 5.2 found to be optimal, which will likely suppress methanogenic activity without inhibitor addition. Applied cathode potential as low as -1.1 V versus SHE still achieved 99% of electron recovery in the form of acetate at a current density of around -200 A m(-2). These current densities are leading to an exceptional acetate production rate of up to 1330 g m(-2) day(-1) at pH 6.7. Using highly open macroporous reticulated vitreous carbon electrodes with macropore sizes of about 0.6 mm in diameter was found to be optimal for achieving a good balance between total surface area available for biofilm formation and effective mass transfer between the bulk liquid and the electrode and biofilm surface. Furthermore, we also successfully demonstrated the use of a synthetic biogas mixture as carbon dioxide source, yielding similarly high MES performance as pure CO2. This would allow this process to be used effectively for both biogas quality improvement and conversion of the available CO2 to acetate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludovic Jourdin
- Advanced Water Management Centre and ‡Centre for Microbial Electrochemical Systems, The University of Queensland , Gehrmann Building, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Stefano Freguia
- Advanced Water Management Centre and ‡Centre for Microbial Electrochemical Systems, The University of Queensland , Gehrmann Building, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Victoria Flexer
- Advanced Water Management Centre and ‡Centre for Microbial Electrochemical Systems, The University of Queensland , Gehrmann Building, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Jurg Keller
- Advanced Water Management Centre and ‡Centre for Microbial Electrochemical Systems, The University of Queensland , Gehrmann Building, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
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Vilà-Rovira A, Puig S, Balaguer MD, Colprim J. Anode hydrodynamics in bioelectrochemical systems. RSC Adv 2015. [DOI: 10.1039/c5ra11995b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This study assesses the hydrodynamics in the anode compartment of a bioelectrochemical system (BES) when using different electrode materials (graphite rod, granular graphite, stainless steel mesh or graphite plate).
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Vilà-Rovira
- LEQUiA
- Institute of the Environment
- University of Girona
- E-17071 Girona
- Spain
| | - Sebastià Puig
- LEQUiA
- Institute of the Environment
- University of Girona
- E-17071 Girona
- Spain
| | - M. Dolors Balaguer
- LEQUiA
- Institute of the Environment
- University of Girona
- E-17071 Girona
- Spain
| | - Jesús Colprim
- LEQUiA
- Institute of the Environment
- University of Girona
- E-17071 Girona
- Spain
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