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Pereira J, de Nooy S, Sleutels T, Ter Heijne A. Opportunities for visual techniques to determine characteristics and limitations of electro-active biofilms. Biotechnol Adv 2022; 60:108011. [PMID: 35753624 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2022.108011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Optimization of bio-electrochemical systems (BESs) relies on a better understanding of electro-active biofilms (EABfs). These microbial communities are studied with a range of techniques, including electrochemical, visual and chemical techniques. Even though each of these techniques provides very valuable and wide-ranging information about EABfs, such as performance, morphology and biofilm composition, they are often destructive. Therefore, the information obtained from EABfs development and characterization studies are limited to a single characterization of EABfs and often limited to one time point that determines the end of the experiment. Despite being scarcer and not as commonly reported as destructive techniques, non-destructive visual techniques can be used to supplement EABfs characterization by adding in-situ information of EABfs functioning and its development throughout time. This opens the door to EABfs monitoring studies that can complement the information obtained with destructive techniques. In this review, we provide an overview of visual techniques and discuss the opportunities for combination with the established electrochemical techniques to study EABfs. By providing an overview of suitable visual techniques and discussing practical examples of combination of visual with electrochemical methods, this review aims at serving as a source of inspiration for future studies in the field of BESs.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Pereira
- Wetsus, European Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology, Oostergoweg 9, 8911, MA, Leeuwarden, the Netherlands; Environmental Technology, Wageningen University, Bornse Weilanden 9, 6708, WG, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Sam de Nooy
- Wetsus, European Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology, Oostergoweg 9, 8911, MA, Leeuwarden, the Netherlands; Environmental Technology, Wageningen University, Bornse Weilanden 9, 6708, WG, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Tom Sleutels
- Wetsus, European Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology, Oostergoweg 9, 8911, MA, Leeuwarden, the Netherlands; Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747, AG, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Annemiek Ter Heijne
- Environmental Technology, Wageningen University, Bornse Weilanden 9, 6708, WG, Wageningen, the Netherlands.
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2
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Cheng Z, Jiang X, Cui Z, Jia H, Wang J. The characteristic of electrode of degradation of bio-electrochemical system based on in-situ ultrasonic monitoring: Biofilm and ion precipitation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 789:147987. [PMID: 34052491 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.147987] [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: 03/14/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Electrode interface behavior is a decisive factor affecting the performance of bio-electrochemical systems, and traditional monitoring methods cannot provide real-time feedback. Therefore, in situ ultrasonic monitoring was performed to continuously monitor the formation process of electroactive biofilm and salt precipitation on the cathode surface. The results showed that biofilm was attached to the cathode surface first. Then, Ca2+ and Mg2+ precipitation gradually invaded the biofilm and accumulated between the cathode and the biofilm. The electrochemical performance of the biofilm adhesion and initial ion invasion process was improved. However, the electrochemical performance of the precipitation layer was decreased, while the operation time increases. In this paper, based on the air cathode scaling analyzing a new method for monitoring the electrode interface of bio-electrochemical system was provided, and the performance was recovered by using reverse electric field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyang Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Separation Membranes and Membrane Processes, TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China; School of Material Science and Engineering, TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China
| | - Xin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Separation Membranes and Membrane Processes, TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China; School of Environmental Science and Engineering, TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China
| | - Zhao Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Separation Membranes and Membrane Processes, TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China; School of Environmental Science and Engineering, TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China
| | - Hui Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Separation Membranes and Membrane Processes, TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China; School of Environmental Science and Engineering, TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China; State Key Laboratory of Biobased Material and Green Papermaking, Qilu University of Technology,Shandong Academy of Science, Jinan 250353, China.
| | - Jie Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Separation Membranes and Membrane Processes, TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China; School of Material Science and Engineering, TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China.
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3
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Gajda I, You J, Mendis BA, Greenman J, Ieropoulos IA. Electrosynthesis, modulation, and self-driven electroseparation in microbial fuel cells. iScience 2021; 24:102805. [PMID: 34471855 PMCID: PMC8390849 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.102805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Microbial electrosynthesis (MES) represents a sustainable platform that converts waste into resources, using microorganisms within an electrochemical cell. Traditionally, MES refers to the oxidation/reduction of a reactant at the electrode surface with externally applied potential bias. However, microbial fuel cells (MFCs) generate electrons that can drive electrochemical reactions at otherwise unbiased electrodes. Electrosynthesis in MFCs is driven by microbial oxidation of organic matter releasing electrons that force the migration of cationic species to the cathode. Here, we explore how electrosynthesis can coexist within electricity-producing MFCs thanks to electro-separation of cations, electroosmotic drag, and oxygen reduction within appropriately designed systems. More importantly, we report on a novel method of in situ modulation for electrosynthesis, through additional “pin” electrodes. Several MFC electrosynthesis modulating methods that adjust the electrode potential of each half-cell through the pin electrodes are presented. The innovative concept of electrosynthesis within the electricity producing MFCs provides a multidisciplinary platform converting waste-to-resources in a self-sustainable way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iwona Gajda
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, Frenchay Campus, University of the West of England (UWE Bristol), Bristol BS16 1QY, UK
| | - Jiseon You
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, Frenchay Campus, University of the West of England (UWE Bristol), Bristol BS16 1QY, UK
| | - Buddhi Arjuna Mendis
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, Frenchay Campus, University of the West of England (UWE Bristol), Bristol BS16 1QY, UK
| | - John Greenman
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, Frenchay Campus, University of the West of England (UWE Bristol), Bristol BS16 1QY, UK
| | - Ioannis A Ieropoulos
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, Frenchay Campus, University of the West of England (UWE Bristol), Bristol BS16 1QY, UK
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4
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Santoro C, Babanova S, Cristiani P, Artyushkova K, Atanassov P, Bergel A, Bretschger O, Brown RK, Carpenter K, Colombo A, Cortese R, Erable B, Harnisch F, Kodali M, Phadke S, Riedl S, Rosa LFM, Schröder U. How Comparable are Microbial Electrochemical Systems around the Globe? An Electrochemical and Microbiological Cross-Laboratory Study. CHEMSUSCHEM 2021; 14:2313-2330. [PMID: 33755321 PMCID: PMC8252665 DOI: 10.1002/cssc.202100294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
A cross-laboratory study on microbial fuel cells (MFC) which involved different institutions around the world is presented. The study aims to assess the development of autochthone microbial pools enriched from domestic wastewater, cultivated in identical single-chamber MFCs, operated in the same way, thereby approaching the idea of developing common standards for MFCs. The MFCs are inoculated with domestic wastewater in different geographic locations. The acclimation stage and, consequently, the startup time are longer or shorter depending on the inoculum, but all MFCs reach similar maximum power outputs (55±22 μW cm-2 ) and COD removal efficiencies (87±9 %), despite the diversity of the bacterial communities. It is inferred that the MFC performance starts when the syntrophic interaction of fermentative and electrogenic bacteria stabilizes under anaerobic conditions at the anode. The generated power is mostly limited by electrolytic conductivity, electrode overpotentials, and an unbalanced external resistance. The enriched microbial consortia, although composed of different bacterial groups, share similar functions both on the anode and the cathode of the different MFCs, resulting in similar electrochemical output.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Santoro
- Department of Material ScienceUniversity of Milan BicoccaU5 Via Cozzi 55Milan20125Italy
| | - Sofia Babanova
- Aquacycl LLC2180 Chablis Court, Suite 102EscondidoCA 92029USA
| | - Pierangela Cristiani
- Department of Sustainable Development and Energy ResourcesRicerca sul Sistema Energetico S.p.A.Via Rubattino 54Milan20134Italy
| | | | - Plamen Atanassov
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering National Fuel Cell Research Center (NFCRC)University of CaliforniaIrvineCA 92697USA
| | - Alain Bergel
- Laboratoire de Génie ChimiqueUniversité de Toulouse, CNRS-INPT-UPS4 allée Emile Monso31432ToulouseFrance
| | | | - Robert K. Brown
- Institute of Environmental and Sustainable ChemistryTechnische Universität BraunschweigHagenring 3038106BraunschweigGermany
| | - Kayla Carpenter
- J. Craig Venter Institute4120 Capricorn LaneLa JollaCA 92037USA
| | - Alessandra Colombo
- Department of ChemistryUniversità degli Studi di MilanoVia Golgi 19Milan20133Italy
| | - Rachel Cortese
- J. Craig Venter Institute4120 Capricorn LaneLa JollaCA 92037USA
| | - Benjamin Erable
- Laboratoire de Génie ChimiqueUniversité de Toulouse, CNRS-INPT-UPS4 allée Emile Monso31432ToulouseFrance
| | - Falk Harnisch
- Department of Environmental MicrobiologyHelmholtz-Centre for Environmental Research – UFZPermoserstr. 1504318LeipzigGermany
| | - Mounika Kodali
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering National Fuel Cell Research Center (NFCRC)University of CaliforniaIrvineCA 92697USA
| | - Sujal Phadke
- J. Craig Venter Institute4120 Capricorn LaneLa JollaCA 92037USA
| | - Sebastian Riedl
- Institute of Environmental and Sustainable ChemistryTechnische Universität BraunschweigHagenring 3038106BraunschweigGermany
| | - Luis F. M. Rosa
- Department of Environmental MicrobiologyHelmholtz-Centre for Environmental Research – UFZPermoserstr. 1504318LeipzigGermany
| | - Uwe Schröder
- Institute of Environmental and Sustainable ChemistryTechnische Universität BraunschweigHagenring 3038106BraunschweigGermany
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Katuri KP, Kamireddy S, Kavanagh P, Muhammad A, Conghaile PÓ, Kumar A, Saikaly PE, Leech D. Electroactive biofilms on surface functionalized anodes: The anode respiring behavior of a novel electroactive bacterium, Desulfuromonas acetexigens. WATER RESEARCH 2020; 185:116284. [PMID: 32818731 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2020.116284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Surface chemistry is known to influence the formation, composition, and electroactivity of electron-conducting biofilms. However, understanding of the evolution of microbial composition during biofilm development and its impact on the electrochemical response is limited. Here we present voltammetric, microscopic and microbial community analysis of biofilms formed under fixed applied potential for modified graphite electrodes during early (90 h) and mature (340 h) growth phases. Electrodes modified to introduce hydrophilic groups (-NH2, -COOH and -OH) enhance early-stage biofilm formation compared to unmodified or electrodes modified with hydrophobic groups (-C2H5). In addition, early-stage films formed on hydrophilic electrodes are dominated by the gram-negative sulfur-reducing bacterium Desulfuromonas acetexigens while Geobacter sp. dominates on -C2H5 and unmodified electrodes. As biofilms mature, current generation becomes similar, and D. acetexigens dominates in all biofilms irrespective of surface chemistry. Electrochemistry of pure culture D. acetexigens biofilms reveal that this microbe is capable of forming electroactive biofilms producing considerable current density of > 9 A/m2 in a short period of potential-induced growth (~19 h following inoculation) using acetate as an electron donor. The inability of D. acetexigens biofilms to use H2 as a sole source electron donor for current generation shows promise for maximizing H2 recovery in single-chambered microbial electrolysis cell systems treating wastewaters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishna P Katuri
- School of Chemistry & Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland Galway, University Road, Galway, H91 TK33, Ireland; Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division, Water Desalination and Reuse Center, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sirisha Kamireddy
- School of Chemistry & Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland Galway, University Road, Galway, H91 TK33, Ireland; Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division, Water Desalination and Reuse Center, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Paul Kavanagh
- School of Chemistry & Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland Galway, University Road, Galway, H91 TK33, Ireland
| | - Ali Muhammad
- Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division, Water Desalination and Reuse Center, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Peter Ó Conghaile
- School of Chemistry & Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland Galway, University Road, Galway, H91 TK33, Ireland
| | - Amit Kumar
- School of Chemistry & Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland Galway, University Road, Galway, H91 TK33, Ireland
| | - Pascal E Saikaly
- Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division, Water Desalination and Reuse Center, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Dónal Leech
- School of Chemistry & Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland Galway, University Road, Galway, H91 TK33, Ireland.
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Santoro C, Walter XA, Soavi F, Greenman J, Ieropoulos I. Air-breathing cathode self-powered supercapacitive microbial fuel cell with human urine as electrolyte. Electrochim Acta 2020; 353:136530. [PMID: 32884155 PMCID: PMC7430050 DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2020.136530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
In this work, a membraneless microbial fuel cell (MFC) with an empty volume of 1.5 mL, fed continuously with hydrolysed urine, was tested in supercapacitive mode (SC-MFC). In order to enhance the power output, a double strategy was used: i) a double cathode was added leading to a decrease in the equivalent series resistance (ESR); ii) the apparent capacitance was boosted up by adding capacitive features on the anode electrode. Galvanostatic (GLV) discharges were performed at different discharge currents. The results showed that both strategies were successful obtaining a maximum power output of 1.59 ± 0.01 mW (1.06 ± 0.01 mW mL−1) at pulse time of 0.01 s and 0.57 ± 0.01 mW (0.38 ± 0.01 mW mL−1) at pulse time of 2 s. The highest energy delivered at ipulse equal to 2 mA was 3.3 ± 0.1 mJ. The best performing SC-MFCs were then connected in series and parallel and tested through GLV discharges. As the power output was similar, the connection in parallel allowed to roughly doubling the current produced. Durability tests over ≈5.6 days showed certain stability despite a light overall decrease. Air-breathing microbial fuel cell was tested in supercapacitive mode. A double cathode addition lead to a decrease in ohmic resistance. Apparent capacitance was boosted up by adding capacitive features. Maximum power output of 1.59 mW (1.06 mW mL−1) was reached at tpulse 0.01s. Series and parallel connections improved the galvanostatic discharges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Santoro
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, UWE, Coldharbour Lane, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK
| | - Xavier Alexis Walter
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, UWE, Coldharbour Lane, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK
| | - Francesca Soavi
- Department of Chemistry "Giacomo Ciamician", Alma Mater Studiorum - Università̀; di Bologna, Via Selmi, 2, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - John Greenman
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, UWE, Coldharbour Lane, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK.,Biological, Biomedical and Analytical Sciences, UWE, Coldharbour Lane, Bristol, BS16 1QY, UK
| | - Ioannis Ieropoulos
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, UWE, Coldharbour Lane, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK
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7
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Gajda I, Obata O, Jose Salar-Garcia M, Greenman J, Ieropoulos IA. Long-term bio-power of ceramic microbial fuel cells in individual and stacked configurations. Bioelectrochemistry 2020; 133:107459. [PMID: 32126486 PMCID: PMC7132540 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2020.107459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Revised: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In order to improve the potential of Microbial Fuel Cells (MFCs) as an applicable technology, the main challenge is to engineer practical systems for bioenergy production at larger scales and to test how the prototypes withstand the challenges occurring during the prolonged operation under constant feeding regime with real waste stream. This work presents the performance assessment of low-cost ceramic MFCs in the individual, stacked (modular) and modular cascade (3 modules) configurations during long term operation up to 19 months, utilising neat human urine as feedstock. During 1 year, the performance of the individual MFC units reached up to 1.56 mW (22.3 W/m3), exhibiting only 20% power loss on day 350 which was significantly smaller in comparison to conventional proton or cation exchange membranes. The stack module comprising 22 MFCs reached up to 21.4 mW (11.9 W/m3) showing power recovery to the initial output levels after 580 days, whereas the 3-module cascade reached up to 75 mW (13.9 W/m3) of power, showing 20% power loss on day 446. In terms of chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal, the 3-module cascade configuration achieved a cumulative reduction of >92%, which is higher than that observed in the single module (56%).
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Affiliation(s)
- Iwona Gajda
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, University of the West of England, BS16 1QY, UK.
| | - Oluwatosin Obata
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, University of the West of England, BS16 1QY, UK
| | - Maria Jose Salar-Garcia
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, University of the West of England, BS16 1QY, UK
| | - John Greenman
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, University of the West of England, BS16 1QY, UK; Centre For Research in Biosciences, University of the West of England, BS16 1QY, UK
| | - Ioannis A Ieropoulos
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, University of the West of England, BS16 1QY, UK; Centre For Research in Biosciences, University of the West of England, BS16 1QY, UK.
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Santoro C, Garcia MJS, Walter XA, You J, Theodosiou P, Gajda I, Obata O, Winfield J, Greenman J, Ieropoulos I. Urine in Bioelectrochemical Systems: An Overall Review. ChemElectroChem 2020; 7:1312-1331. [PMID: 32322457 PMCID: PMC7161917 DOI: 10.1002/celc.201901995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, human urine has been successfully used as an electrolyte and organic substrate in bioelectrochemical systems (BESs) mainly due of its unique properties. Urine contains organic compounds that can be utilised as a fuel for energy recovery in microbial fuel cells (MFCs) and it has high nutrient concentrations including nitrogen and phosphorous that can be concentrated and recovered in microbial electrosynthesis cells and microbial concentration cells. Moreover, human urine has high solution conductivity, which reduces the ohmic losses of these systems, improving BES output. This review describes the most recent advances in BESs utilising urine. Properties of neat human urine used in state-of-the-art MFCs are described from basic to pilot-scale and real implementation. Utilisation of urine in other bioelectrochemical systems for nutrient recovery is also discussed including proofs of concept to scale up systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Santoro
- Bristol BioEnergy CentreBristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, UWEColdharbour LaneBristolBS16 1QYUK
| | - Maria Jose Salar Garcia
- Bristol BioEnergy CentreBristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, UWEColdharbour LaneBristolBS16 1QYUK
| | - Xavier Alexis Walter
- Bristol BioEnergy CentreBristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, UWEColdharbour LaneBristolBS16 1QYUK
| | - Jiseon You
- Bristol BioEnergy CentreBristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, UWEColdharbour LaneBristolBS16 1QYUK
| | - Pavlina Theodosiou
- Bristol BioEnergy CentreBristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, UWEColdharbour LaneBristolBS16 1QYUK
| | - Iwona Gajda
- Bristol BioEnergy CentreBristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, UWEColdharbour LaneBristolBS16 1QYUK
| | - Oluwatosin Obata
- Bristol BioEnergy CentreBristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, UWEColdharbour LaneBristolBS16 1QYUK
| | - Jonathan Winfield
- Bristol BioEnergy CentreBristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, UWEColdharbour LaneBristolBS16 1QYUK
| | - John Greenman
- Bristol BioEnergy CentreBristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, UWEColdharbour LaneBristolBS16 1QYUK
- Biological, Biomedical and Analytical Sciences, UWEColdharbour LaneBristolBS16 1QYUK
| | - Ioannis Ieropoulos
- Bristol BioEnergy CentreBristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, UWEColdharbour LaneBristolBS16 1QYUK
- Biological, Biomedical and Analytical Sciences, UWEColdharbour LaneBristolBS16 1QYUK
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9
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Gao N, Fan Y, Wang L, Long F, Deng D, Liu H. Accelerated tests for evaluating the air-cathode aging in microbial fuel cells. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2020; 297:122479. [PMID: 31813816 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2019.122479] [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: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Air-cathode stability is a key factor affecting the feasibility of microbial fuel cells (MFCs) in applications. However, there is no quick and effective method to evaluate the robustness and durability of the MFC air cathodes. In this study, a three-phase decrease of power density was observed in multiple MFCs that have been operated for about a year. Quantification of the contributions of cathode biofilm and salt accumulation to the current decrease suggested that the biofouling was the major contributor to the cathode aging during the first 200 days, and salt accumulation gradually outpaced biofouling afterward. An accelerated test method was then developed using fast-growing Escherichia coli, simulated soluble microbial products (SMPs), and a concentrated medium solution. Using this method, the cathode aging can be evaluated quickly within hours/days compared to over a year of operation, benefiting the development of high-performing and durable cathode materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ningshengjie Gao
- Department of Biological and Ecological Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis 97331, USA
| | - Yanzhen Fan
- Waste2watergy LLC, 3830 NW Boxwood Dr, Corvallis 97330, USA
| | - Luguang Wang
- Department of Biological and Ecological Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis 97331, USA
| | - Fei Long
- Department of Biological and Ecological Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis 97331, USA
| | - Dezhong Deng
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis 97331, USA
| | - Hong Liu
- Department of Biological and Ecological Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis 97331, USA.
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Hiegemann H, Littfinski T, Krimmler S, Lübken M, Klein D, Schmelz KG, Ooms K, Pant D, Wichern M. Performance and inorganic fouling of a submergible 255 L prototype microbial fuel cell module during continuous long-term operation with real municipal wastewater under practical conditions. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2019; 294:122227. [PMID: 31610498 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2019.122227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2019] [Revised: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
A submergible 255 L prototype MFC module was operated under practical conditions with municipal wastewater having a large share in industrial discharges for 98 days to investigate the performance of two of the largest, ever investigated multi-panel stainless steel/activated carbon air cathodes (85 × 85 cm). At a flow rate of 144 L/d, power density of 78 mW/m2Cat (317 mW/m3) and COD, TSS and TN removal of 41 ± 16 %, 36 ± 16 % and 18 ± 14 %, respectively, were reached. Observed Coulombic efficiency and substrate-specific energy recovery were 29.5 ± 14 % and 0.184 ± 0.125 kWhel/kgCOD,deg, respectively. High salt content of wastewater (TDS = 2.8 g/L) led to severe inorganic fouling causing a drastic decline in power output and energy recovery of more than 90 % in the course of experiments. Mechanical cleaning of the cathodes restored only 22 % (17 mW/m2Cat) of the power output and did not improve nutrient removal or energy recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heinz Hiegemann
- Institute of Urban Water Management and Environmental Engineering, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Fakultät für Bau- und Umweltingenieurwissenschaften, Universitätsstraße 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany; Emschergenossenschaft / Lippeverband, Kronprinzenstr. 24, 45128 Essen, Germany.
| | - Tobias Littfinski
- Institute of Urban Water Management and Environmental Engineering, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Fakultät für Bau- und Umweltingenieurwissenschaften, Universitätsstraße 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany
| | - Stefan Krimmler
- Institute of Urban Water Management and Environmental Engineering, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Fakultät für Bau- und Umweltingenieurwissenschaften, Universitätsstraße 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany
| | - Manfred Lübken
- Institute of Urban Water Management and Environmental Engineering, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Fakultät für Bau- und Umweltingenieurwissenschaften, Universitätsstraße 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany
| | - Daniel Klein
- Emschergenossenschaft / Lippeverband, Kronprinzenstr. 24, 45128 Essen, Germany
| | - Karl-Georg Schmelz
- Emschergenossenschaft / Lippeverband, Kronprinzenstr. 24, 45128 Essen, Germany
| | - Kristoffer Ooms
- Research Institute for Water and Waste Management at RWTH Aachen (FiW) e.V., Kackertstr. 15 - 17, 52072 Aachen, Germany
| | - Deepak Pant
- Separation & Conversion Technology, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), Boeretang 200, Mol 2400, Belgium
| | - Marc Wichern
- Institute of Urban Water Management and Environmental Engineering, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Fakultät für Bau- und Umweltingenieurwissenschaften, Universitätsstraße 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany
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Marzorati S, Cristiani P, Longhi M, Trasatti SP, Traversa E. Nanoceria acting as oxygen reservoir for biocathodes in microbial fuel cells. Electrochim Acta 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2019.134954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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13
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Salar Garcia MJ, Santoro C, Kodali M, Serov A, Artyushkova K, Atanassov P, Ieropoulos I. Iron-streptomycin derived catalyst for efficient oxygen reduction reaction in ceramic microbial fuel cells operating with urine. JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES 2019; 425:50-59. [PMID: 31217667 PMCID: PMC6559230 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpowsour.2019.03.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/14/2019] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, the microbial fuel cell (MFC) technology has drawn the attention of the scientific community due to its ability to produce clean energy and treat different types of waste at the same time. Often, expensive catalysts are required to facilitate the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and this hinders their large-scale commercialisation. In this work, a novel iron-based catalyst (Fe-STR) synthesised from iron salt and streptomycin as a nitrogen-rich organic precursor was chemically, morphologically and electrochemically studied. The kinetics of Fe-STR with and without being doped with carbon nanotubes (CNT) was initially screened through rotating disk electrode (RDE) analysis. Then, the catalysts were integrated into air-breathing cathodes and placed into ceramic-type MFCs continuously fed with human urine. The half-wave potential showed the following trend Fe-STR > Fe-STR-CNT ≫ AC, indicating better kinetics towards ORR in the case of Fe-STR. In terms of MFC performance, the results showed that cathodes containing Fe-based catalyst outperformed AC-based cathodes after 3 months of operation. The long-term test reported that Fe-STR-based cathodes allow MFCs to reach a stable power output of 104.5 ± 0.0 μW cm-2, 74% higher than AC-based cathodes (60.4 ± 3.9 μW cm-2). To the best of the Authors' knowledge, this power performance is the highest recorded from ceramic-type MFCs fed with human urine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Jose Salar Garcia
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, UWE, Coldharbour Lane, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK
| | - Carlo Santoro
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, UWE, Coldharbour Lane, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK
| | - Mounika Kodali
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Micro-Engineered Materials (CMEM), Advanced Materials Lab, 1001 University Blvd. SE Suite 103, MSC 04 2790, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, University of New Mexico, USA
| | - Alexey Serov
- Pajarito Powder, LLC, 3600 Osuna Rd NE Ste 309, Albuquerque, NM, 87109, USA
| | - Kateryna Artyushkova
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Micro-Engineered Materials (CMEM), Advanced Materials Lab, 1001 University Blvd. SE Suite 103, MSC 04 2790, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, University of New Mexico, USA
| | - Plamen Atanassov
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Micro-Engineered Materials (CMEM), Advanced Materials Lab, 1001 University Blvd. SE Suite 103, MSC 04 2790, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, University of New Mexico, USA
| | - Ioannis Ieropoulos
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, UWE, Coldharbour Lane, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK
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14
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Goglio A, Marzorati S, Rago L, Pant D, Cristiani P, Schievano A. Microbial recycling cells: First steps into a new type of microbial electrochemical technologies, aimed at recovering nutrients from wastewater. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2019; 277:117-127. [PMID: 30660962 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2019.01.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Revised: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this work were to study terracotta-based porous air-water separators (4 mm thickness) in microbial recycling cells (MRCs) fed with cow manure (CM), swine manure (SM) and dairy wastewater (DW). Over 125 days, besides the removal of 60-90% of soluble-COD, considerable fractions of the main macronutrients (C, N, P, K, Fe, Mn, Ca, Mg) were removed from the wastewater and deposited on the terracotta separators as both inorganic salts and biomass deposits. Water evaporation at air-water interface as well as the high cathodic pH (10-12), induced by oxygen reduction to OH-, were the predominant factors leading to precipitation. The separators were saturated of up to 10 g per kg of terracotta of the main macronutrients, with negligible concentrations of the main inorganic contaminants. These materials could be directly reused as nutrients-enriched solid conditioners for agricultural soils.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Goglio
- e-Bio Center, Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Stefania Marzorati
- e-Bio Center, Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Rago
- e-Bio Center, Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Deepak Pant
- Separation & Conversion Technology, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - Pierangela Cristiani
- Ricerca del Sistema Energetico, Via Rubattino 54, 20134 Milano, Italy; e-Bio Center, Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Schievano
- e-Bio Center, Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy.
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15
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Walter XA, Santoro C, Greenman J, Ieropoulos IA. Scalability of self-stratifying microbial fuel cell: Towards height miniaturisation. Bioelectrochemistry 2019; 127:68-75. [PMID: 30735920 PMCID: PMC6450375 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2019.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Revised: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The scalability of bioelectrochemical systems is a key parameter for their practical implementation in the real-world. Up until now, only urine-fed self-stratifying microbial fuel cells (SSM-MFCs) have been shown to be scalable in width and length with limited power density losses. For practical reasons, the present work focuses on the scalability of SSM-MFCs in the one dimension that has not yet been investigated, namely height. Three different height conditions were considered (1 cm, 2 cm and 3 cm tall electrodes). The normalised power density of the 2 cm and 3 cm conditions were similar either during the durability test under a hydraulic retention time of ≈39 h (i.e. 15.74 ± 0.99 μW.cm-3) and during the polarisation experiments (i.e. 27.79 ± 0.92 μW.cm-3). Conversely, the 1 cm condition had lower power densities of 11.23 ± 0.07 μW.cm-3 and 17.73 ± 3.94 μW.cm-3 both during the durability test and the polarisation experiment, respectively. These results confirm that SSM-MFCs can be scaled in all 3 dimensions with minimal power density losses, with a minimum height threshold for the electrode comprised between 1 cm and 2 cm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xavier Alexis Walter
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, Frenchay Campus, University of the West of England (UWE), Bristol BS16 1QY, United Kingdom.
| | - Carlo Santoro
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, Frenchay Campus, University of the West of England (UWE), Bristol BS16 1QY, United Kingdom.
| | - John Greenman
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, Frenchay Campus, University of the West of England (UWE), Bristol BS16 1QY, United Kingdom.
| | - Ioannis A Ieropoulos
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, Frenchay Campus, University of the West of England (UWE), Bristol BS16 1QY, United Kingdom.
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16
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Mecheri B, Gokhale R, Santoro C, Costa de Oliveira MA, D’Epifanio A, Licoccia S, Serov A, Artyushkova K, Atanassov P. Oxygen Reduction Reaction Electrocatalysts Derived from Iron Salt and Benzimidazole and Aminobenzimidazole Precursors and Their Application in Microbial Fuel Cell Cathodes. ACS APPLIED ENERGY MATERIALS 2018; 1:5755-5765. [PMID: 30406217 PMCID: PMC6199672 DOI: 10.1021/acsaem.8b01360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
In this work, benzimidazole (BZIM) and aminobenzimidazole (ABZIM) were used as organic-rich in nitrogen precursors during the synthesis of iron-nitrogen-carbon (Fe-N-C) based catalysts by sacrificial support method (SSM) technique. The catalysts obtained, denoted Fe-ABZIM and Fe-BZIM, were characterized morphologically and chemically through SEM, TEM, and XPS. Moreover, these catalysts were initially tested in rotating ring disk electrode (RRDE) configuration, resulting in similar high electrocatalytic activity toward oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) having low hydrogen peroxide generated (<3%). The ORR performance was significantly higher compared to activated carbon (AC) that was the control. The catalysts were then integrated into air-breathing (AB) and gas diffusion layer (GDL) cathode electrode and tested in operating microbial fuel cells (MFCs). The presence of Fe-N-C catalysts boosted the power output compared to AC cathode MFC. The AB-type cathode outperformed the GDL type cathode probably because of reduced catalyst layer flooding. The highest performance obtained in this work was 162 ± 3 μWcm-2. Fe-ABZIM and Fe-BZIM had similar performance when incorporated to the same type of cathode configuration. Long-term operations show a decrease up to 50% of the performance in two months operations. Despite the power output decrease, the Fe-BZIM/Fe-ABZIM catalysts gave a significant advantage in fuel cell performance compared to the bare AC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Mecheri
- Department
of Chemical Science and Technologies, University
of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133, Rome, Italy
- E-mail: . Phone: +39 06 7259 4488
| | - Rohan Gokhale
- Department
of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Micro-Engineered
Materials (CMEM), Advanced Materials Lab, University of New Mexico, 1001 University Blvd. SE Suite 103, MSC 04 2790, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
| | - Carlo Santoro
- Department
of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Micro-Engineered
Materials (CMEM), Advanced Materials Lab, University of New Mexico, 1001 University Blvd. SE Suite 103, MSC 04 2790, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
- E-mail: . Phone: +1 505 277 2640
| | - Maida Aysla Costa de Oliveira
- Department
of Chemical Science and Technologies, University
of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra D’Epifanio
- Department
of Chemical Science and Technologies, University
of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Licoccia
- Department
of Chemical Science and Technologies, University
of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Alexey Serov
- Department
of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Micro-Engineered
Materials (CMEM), Advanced Materials Lab, University of New Mexico, 1001 University Blvd. SE Suite 103, MSC 04 2790, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
| | - Kateryna Artyushkova
- Department
of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Micro-Engineered
Materials (CMEM), Advanced Materials Lab, University of New Mexico, 1001 University Blvd. SE Suite 103, MSC 04 2790, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
| | - Plamen Atanassov
- Department
of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Micro-Engineered
Materials (CMEM), Advanced Materials Lab, University of New Mexico, 1001 University Blvd. SE Suite 103, MSC 04 2790, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
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17
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Erable B, Oliot M, Lacroix R, Bergel A, Serov A, Kodali M, Santoro C, Atanassov P. Iron-Nicarbazin derived platinum group metal-free electrocatalyst in scalable-size air-breathing cathodes for microbial fuel cells. Electrochim Acta 2018; 277:127-135. [PMID: 29970929 PMCID: PMC6004532 DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2018.04.190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
In this work, a platinum group metal-free (PGM-free) catalyst based on iron as transitional metal and Nicarbazin (NCB) as low cost organic precursor was synthesized using Sacrificial Support Method (SSM). The catalyst was then incorporated into a large area air-breathing cathode fabricated by pressing with a large diameter pellet die. The electrochemical tests in abiotic conditions revealed that after a couple of weeks of successful operation, the electrode experienced drop in performances in reason of electrolyte leakage, which was not an issue with the smaller electrodes. A decrease in the hydrophobic properties over time and a consequent cathode flooding was suspected to be the cause. On the other side, in the present work, for the first time, it was demonstrated the proof of principle and provided initial guidance for manufacturing MFC electrodes with large geometric areas. The tests in MFCs showed a maximum power density of 1.85 W m-2. The MFCs performances due to the addition of Fe-NCB were much higher compared to the iron-free material. A numerical model using Nernst-Monod and Butler-Volmer equations were used to predict the effect of electrolyte solution conductivity and distance anode-cathode on the overall MFC power output. Considering the existing conditions, the higher overall power predicted was 3.6 mW at 22.2 S m-1 and at inter-electrode distance of 1 cm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Erable
- Laboratoire de Génie Chimique, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INP, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Manon Oliot
- Laboratoire de Génie Chimique, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INP, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Rémy Lacroix
- 6T-MIC Ingénieries, 9 rue du développement, 31320, Castanet-Tolosan, France
| | - Alain Bergel
- Laboratoire de Génie Chimique, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INP, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Alexey Serov
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Micro-Engineered Materials (CMEM), Advanced Materials Lab, 1001 University Blvd. SE Suite 103, MSC 04 2790, University of New Mexico Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Mounika Kodali
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Micro-Engineered Materials (CMEM), Advanced Materials Lab, 1001 University Blvd. SE Suite 103, MSC 04 2790, University of New Mexico Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Carlo Santoro
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Micro-Engineered Materials (CMEM), Advanced Materials Lab, 1001 University Blvd. SE Suite 103, MSC 04 2790, University of New Mexico Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Plamen Atanassov
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Micro-Engineered Materials (CMEM), Advanced Materials Lab, 1001 University Blvd. SE Suite 103, MSC 04 2790, University of New Mexico Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
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18
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Doyle LE, Marsili E. Weak electricigens: A new avenue for bioelectrochemical research. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2018; 258:354-364. [PMID: 29519634 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2018.02.073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2017] [Revised: 02/15/2018] [Accepted: 02/16/2018] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Electroactivity appears to be a phylogenetically diverse trait independent of cell wall classification, with both Gram-negative and Gram-positive electricigens reported. While numerous electricigens have been observed, the majority of research focuses on a select group of highly electroactive species. Under favorable conditions, many microorganisms can be considered electroactive, either through their own mechanisms or exogenously-added mediators, producing a weak current. Such microbes should not be dismissed based on their modest electroactivity. Rather, they may be key to understanding what drives extracellular electron transfer in response to transient limitations of electron acceptor or donor, with implications for the study of pathogens and industrial bioprocesses. Due to their low electroactivity, such populations are difficult to grow in bioelectrochemical systems and characterise with electrochemistry. Here, a critical review of recent research on weak electricigens is provided, with a focus on the methodology and the overall relevance to microbial ecology and bioelectrochemical systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucinda E Doyle
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, 637551, Singapore
| | - Enrico Marsili
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, 637551, Singapore; School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 62 Nanyang Drive, 637459, Singapore.
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19
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Rago L, Zecchin S, Marzorati S, Goglio A, Cavalca L, Cristiani P, Schievano A. A study of microbial communities on terracotta separator and on biocathode of air breathing microbial fuel cells. Bioelectrochemistry 2018; 120:18-26. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2017.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2017] [Revised: 11/10/2017] [Accepted: 11/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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20
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Li X, Lu Y, Luo H, Liu G, Zhang R. Microbial stratification structure within cathodic biofilm of the microbial fuel cell using the freezing microtome method. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2017; 241:384-390. [PMID: 28578279 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2017.05.137] [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: 04/12/2017] [Revised: 05/19/2017] [Accepted: 05/20/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the microbial stratification structure within cathodic biofilm of the microbial fuel cell (MFC) using the freezing microtome method. Experiments were conducted in a single-chamber air-cathode MFC with 0.8g/L maltodextrin as substrate for ∼30d operation. The maximum power density was 945±10mW/m2 in the MFC. Maltodextrin resulted in the relative abundance of Candidatus Saccharibacteria of 37.0% in the anodic biofilm. Different bacterial communities were identified in different layers within the cathodic biofilm. The relative abundance of Enterococcus was 3.7%, 10.5%, and 1.6% in the top (100-150μm), middle (50-100μm), and bottom (0-50μm) layers, respectively. Higher bacterial viability was observed within the top and bottom layers of the cathodic biofilm. Understanding the stratification of bacterial community in cathodic biofilm should be important to control the cathodic biofilm in the MFC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Yaobin Lu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Haiping Luo
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Guangli Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China.
| | - Renduo Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
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21
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Santoro C, Talarposhti MR, Kodali M, Gokhale R, Serov A, Merino-Jimenez I, Ieropoulos I, Atanassov P. Microbial Desalination Cells with Efficient Platinum-Group-Metal-Free Cathode Catalysts. ChemElectroChem 2017. [DOI: 10.1002/celc.201700626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Santoro
- The Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Micro-Engineered Materials (CMEM); University of New Mexico; Albuquerque NM 87131 USA
| | - Morteza Rezaei Talarposhti
- The Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Micro-Engineered Materials (CMEM); University of New Mexico; Albuquerque NM 87131 USA
| | - Mounika Kodali
- The Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Micro-Engineered Materials (CMEM); University of New Mexico; Albuquerque NM 87131 USA
| | - Rohan Gokhale
- The Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Micro-Engineered Materials (CMEM); University of New Mexico; Albuquerque NM 87131 USA
| | - Alexey Serov
- The Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Micro-Engineered Materials (CMEM); University of New Mexico; Albuquerque NM 87131 USA
| | - Irene Merino-Jimenez
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre; Bristol Robotics Laboratory, Block T, UWE; Coldharbour Lane Bristol BS16 1QY UK
| | - Ioannis Ieropoulos
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre; Bristol Robotics Laboratory, Block T, UWE; Coldharbour Lane Bristol BS16 1QY UK
- Biological, Biomedical and Analytical Sciences; UWE; Coldharbour Lane Bristol BS16 1QY UK
| | - Plamen Atanassov
- The Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Micro-Engineered Materials (CMEM); University of New Mexico; Albuquerque NM 87131 USA
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22
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Colombo A, Marzorati S, Lucchini G, Cristiani P, Pant D, Schievano A. Assisting cultivation of photosynthetic microorganisms by microbial fuel cells to enhance nutrients recovery from wastewater. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2017; 237:240-248. [PMID: 28341382 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2017.03.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2017] [Revised: 03/06/2017] [Accepted: 03/08/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Spirulina was cultivated in cathodic compartments of photo-microbial fuel cells (P-MFC). Anodic compartments were fed with swine-farming wastewater, enriched with sodium acetate (2.34gCODL-1). Photosynthetic oxygen generation rates were sufficient to sustain cathodic oxygen reduction, significantly improving P-MFC electrochemical performances, as compared to water-cathode control experiments. Power densities (0.8-1Wm-2) approached those of air-cathode MFCs, run as control. COD was efficiently removed and only negligible fractions leaked to the cathodic chamber. Spirulina growth rates were comparable to those of control (MFC-free) cultures, while pH was significantly (0.5-1unit) higher in P-MFCs, due to cathodic reactions. Alkaliphilic photosynthetic microorganisms like Spirulina might take advantage of these selective conditions. Electro-migration along with diffusion to the cathodic compartment concurred for the recovery of most nutrients. Only P and Mg were retained in the anodic chamber. A deeper look into electro-osmotic mechanisms should be addressed in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Colombo
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Science (DiSAA), Università degli Studi di Milano, via Celoria 2, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Stefania Marzorati
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Science (DiSAA), Università degli Studi di Milano, via Celoria 2, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Giorgio Lucchini
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Science (DiSAA), Università degli Studi di Milano, via Celoria 2, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Pierangela Cristiani
- RSE - Ricerca sul Sistema Energetico S.p.A., via Rubattino 54, 20134 Milano, Italy
| | - Deepak Pant
- Separation & Conversion Technology, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - Andrea Schievano
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Science (DiSAA), Università degli Studi di Milano, via Celoria 2, 20133 Milano, Italy.
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23
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Rago L, Cristiani P, Villa F, Zecchin S, Colombo A, Cavalca L, Schievano A. Influences of dissolved oxygen concentration on biocathodic microbial communities in microbial fuel cells. Bioelectrochemistry 2017; 116:39-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2017.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Revised: 04/01/2017] [Accepted: 04/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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24
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Santoro C, Arbizzani C, Erable B, Ieropoulos I. Microbial fuel cells: From fundamentals to applications. A review. JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES 2017; 356:225-244. [PMID: 28717261 PMCID: PMC5465942 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpowsour.2017.03.109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 527] [Impact Index Per Article: 75.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/23/2017] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
In the past 10-15 years, the microbial fuel cell (MFC) technology has captured the attention of the scientific community for the possibility of transforming organic waste directly into electricity through microbially catalyzed anodic, and microbial/enzymatic/abiotic cathodic electrochemical reactions. In this review, several aspects of the technology are considered. Firstly, a brief history of abiotic to biological fuel cells and subsequently, microbial fuel cells is presented. Secondly, the development of the concept of microbial fuel cell into a wider range of derivative technologies, called bioelectrochemical systems, is described introducing briefly microbial electrolysis cells, microbial desalination cells and microbial electrosynthesis cells. The focus is then shifted to electroactive biofilms and electron transfer mechanisms involved with solid electrodes. Carbonaceous and metallic anode materials are then introduced, followed by an explanation of the electro catalysis of the oxygen reduction reaction and its behavior in neutral media, from recent studies. Cathode catalysts based on carbonaceous, platinum-group metal and platinum-group-metal-free materials are presented, along with membrane materials with a view to future directions. Finally, microbial fuel cell practical implementation, through the utilization of energy output for practical applications, is described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Santoro
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center Micro-Engineered Materials (CMEM), University of New Mexico, 87106, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Catia Arbizzani
- Department of Chemistry “Giacomo Ciamician”, University of Bologna, Via Selmi 2, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Benjamin Erable
- University of Toulouse, CNRS, Laboratoire de Génie Chimique, CAMPUS INP – ENSIACET, 4 Allée Emile Monso, CS 84234, 31432, Toulouse Cedex 4, France
| | - Ioannis Ieropoulos
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, T Block, University of the West of England, Frenchay Campus, Coldharbour Ln, Bristol, BS16 1QY, United Kingdom
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25
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Grattieri M, Shivel ND, Sifat I, Bestetti M, Minteer SD. Sustainable Hypersaline Microbial Fuel Cells: Inexpensive Recyclable Polymer Supports for Carbon Nanotube Conductive Paint Anodes. CHEMSUSCHEM 2017; 10:2053-2058. [PMID: 28244231 DOI: 10.1002/cssc.201700099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2017] [Revised: 02/26/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Microbial fuel cells are an emerging technology for wastewater treatment, but to be commercially viable and sustainable, the electrode materials must be inexpensive, recyclable, and reliable. In this study, recyclable polymeric supports were explored for the development of anode electrodes to be applied in single-chamber microbial fuel cells operated in field under hypersaline conditions. The support was covered with a carbon nanotube (CNT) based conductive paint, and biofilms were able to colonize the electrodes. The single-chamber microbial fuel cells with Pt-free cathodes delivered a reproducible power output after 15 days of operation to achieve 12±1 mW m-2 at a current density of 69±7 mA m-2 . The decrease of the performance in long-term experiments was mostly related to inorganic precipitates on the cathode electrode and did not affect the performance of the anode, as shown by experiments in which the cathode was replaced and the fuel cell performance was regenerated. The results of these studies show the feasibility of polymeric supports coated with CNT-based paint for microbial fuel cell applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Grattieri
- Departments of Chemistry and Material Science and Engineering, University of Utah, 315 S 1400 E Rm 2020, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Nelson D Shivel
- Departments of Chemistry and Material Science and Engineering, University of Utah, 315 S 1400 E Rm 2020, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Iram Sifat
- Departments of Chemistry and Material Science and Engineering, University of Utah, 315 S 1400 E Rm 2020, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
- United States-Pakistan Centre for Advanced Studies in Water, Mehran University of Engineering and Technology, Jamshoro, 76090, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Massimiliano Bestetti
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "G. Natta", Politecnico di Milano, Piazza L. da Vinci 32, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Shelley D Minteer
- Departments of Chemistry and Material Science and Engineering, University of Utah, 315 S 1400 E Rm 2020, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
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Kumar P, Chatterjee P, Ghangrekar MM. Fouling resistant nitrogen doped carbon powder with amino-tri-methylene-phosphate cathode for microbial fuel cell. MATERIALS FOR RENEWABLE AND SUSTAINABLE ENERGY 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s40243-017-0093-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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Kodali M, Santoro C, Serov A, Kabir S, Artyushkova K, Matanovic I, Atanassov P. Air Breathing Cathodes for Microbial Fuel Cell using Mn-, Fe-, Co- and Ni-containing Platinum Group Metal-free Catalysts. Electrochim Acta 2017; 231:115-124. [PMID: 28413228 PMCID: PMC5384433 DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2017.02.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/30/2022]
Abstract
The oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is one of the major factors that is limiting the overall performance output of microbial fuel cells (MFC). In this study, Platinum Group Metal-free (PGM-free) ORR catalysts based on Fe, Co, Ni, Mn and the same precursor (Aminoantipyrine, AAPyr) were synthesized using identical sacrificial support method (SSM). The catalysts were investigated for their electrochemical performance, and then integrated into an air-breathing cathode to be tested in "clean" environment and in a working microbial fuel cell (MFC). Their performances were also compared to activated carbon (AC) based cathode under similar conditions. Results showed that the addition of Mn, Fe, Co and Ni to AAPyr increased the performances compared to AC. Fe-AAPyr showed the highest open circuit potential (OCP) that was 0.307 ± 0.001 V (vs. Ag/AgCl) and the highest electrocatalytic activity at pH 7.5. On the contrary, AC had an OCP of 0.203 ± 0.002 V (vs. Ag/AgCl) and had the lowest electrochemical activity. In MFC, Fe-AAPyr also had the highest output of 251 ± 2.3 μWcm-2, followed by Co-AAPyr with 196 ± 1.5 μWcm-2, Ni-AAPyr with 171 ± 3.6 μWcm-2, Mn-AAPyr with 160 ± 2.8 μWcm-2 and AC 129 ± 4.2 μWcm-2. The best performing catalyst (Fe-AAPyr) was then tested in MFC with increasing solution conductivity from 12.4 mScm-1 to 63.1 mScm-1. A maximum power density of 482 ± 5 μWcm-2 was obtained with increasing solution conductivity, which is one of the highest values reported in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mounika Kodali
- Center Micro-Engineered Materials (CMEM), Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Carlo Santoro
- Center Micro-Engineered Materials (CMEM), Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Alexey Serov
- Center Micro-Engineered Materials (CMEM), Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Sadia Kabir
- Center Micro-Engineered Materials (CMEM), Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Kateryna Artyushkova
- Center Micro-Engineered Materials (CMEM), Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Ivana Matanovic
- Center Micro-Engineered Materials (CMEM), Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA.,Theoretical Division, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM 87545, USA
| | - Plamen Atanassov
- Center Micro-Engineered Materials (CMEM), Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
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Oliot M, Etcheverry L, Bergel A. Removable air-cathode to overcome cathode biofouling in microbial fuel cells. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2016; 221:691-696. [PMID: 27712857 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2016.09.095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2016] [Revised: 09/16/2016] [Accepted: 09/22/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
An innovative microbial fuel cell (MFC) design is described, which allows the air-cathode to be replaced easily without draining the electrolyte. MFCs equipped with 9-cm2 or 50-cm2 bioanodes provided 0.6 and 0.7W/m2 (referred to the cathode surface area) and were boosted to 1.25 and 1.96W/m2, respectively, when the initial air-cathode was replaced by a new one. These results validate the practical interest of removable air-cathodes and evidence the importance of the cathode biofouling that takes place during the MFC starting phase. As this biofouling is compensated by the concomitant improvement of the bioanodes it cannot be detected on the power curves and may be a widespread cause of performance underestimation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manon Oliot
- Laboratoire de Génie Chimique CNRS - Université de Toulouse (INPT), 4 allée Emile Monso, 31432 Toulouse, France.
| | - Luc Etcheverry
- Laboratoire de Génie Chimique CNRS - Université de Toulouse (INPT), 4 allée Emile Monso, 31432 Toulouse, France
| | - Alain Bergel
- Laboratoire de Génie Chimique CNRS - Université de Toulouse (INPT), 4 allée Emile Monso, 31432 Toulouse, France
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Anodic biofilms as the interphase for electroactive bacterial growth on carbon veil. Biointerphases 2016; 11:031013. [PMID: 27609094 DOI: 10.1116/1.4962264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The structure and activity of electrochemically active biofilms (EABs) are usually investigated on flat electrodes. However, real world applications such as wastewater treatment and bioelectrosynthesis require tridimensional electrodes to increase surface area and facilitate EAB attachment. The structure and activity of thick EABs grown on high surface area electrodes are difficult to characterize with electrochemical and microscopy methods. Here, the authors adopt a stacked electrode configuration to simulate the high surface and the tridimensional structure of an electrode for large-scale EAB applications. Each layer of the stacked electrode is independently characterized using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and digital image processing. Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 biofilm on stacked carbon veil electrodes is grown under constant oxidative potentials (0, +200, and +400 mV versus Ag/AgCl) until a stable current output is obtained. The textural, aerial, and volumetric parameters extracted from CLSM images allow tracking of the evolution of morphological properties within the stacked electrodes. The electrode layers facing the bulk liquid show higher biovolumes compared with the inner layer of the stack. The electrochemical performance of S. oneidensis MR-1 is directly linked to the overall biofilm volume as well as connectivity between cell clusters.
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Santoro C, Babanova S, Erable B, Schuler A, Atanassov P. Bilirubin oxidase based enzymatic air-breathing cathode: Operation under pristine and contaminated conditions. Bioelectrochemistry 2016; 108:1-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2015.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2015] [Revised: 10/16/2015] [Accepted: 10/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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