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Xu H, Yang XL, Zhang ZH, Xia YG, Song HL. External circuit loading mode regulates anode biofilm electrochemistry and pollutants removal in microbial fuel cells. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2024; 410:131300. [PMID: 39153696 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2024.131300] [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: 06/11/2024] [Revised: 08/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of different external circuit loading mode on pollutants removal and power generation in microbial fuel cells (MFC). The results indicated that MFC exhibited distinct characteristics of higher maximum power density (Pmax) (named MFC-HP) and lower Pmax (named MFC-LP). And the capacitive properties of bioanodes may affect anodic electrochemistry. Reducing external load to align with the internal resistance increased Pmax of MFC-LP by 54.47 %, without no obvious effect on MFC-HP. However, intermittent external resistance loading (IER) mitigated the biotoxic effects of sulfamethoxazole (SMX) (a persistent organic pollutant) on chemical oxygen demand (COD) and NH4+-N removal and maintained high Pmax (424.33 mW/m2) in MFC-HP. Meanwhile, IER mode enriched electrochemically active bacteria (EAB) and environmental adaptive bacteria Advenella, which may reduce antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) accumulation. This study suggested that the external circuit control can be effective means to regulate electrochemical characteristics and pollutants removal performance of MFC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Xu
- School of Civil Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Xiao-Li Yang
- School of Civil Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China.
| | - Zhi-Hao Zhang
- School of Civil Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Yang-Guang Xia
- School of Civil Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Hai-Liang Song
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Jiangsu Engineering Lab of Water and Soil Eco-Remediation, Nanjing 210023, China
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2
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Xie A, Martínez-Vargas DR, Yang Z, Zou S. Efficient selenate removal from impaired waters with TiO 2-assisted electrocatalysis. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 262:122134. [PMID: 39067272 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.122134] [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: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Aquatic selenium (Se) oxyanions have profound ecosystem and human health impacts, necessitating their conversion and immobilization into elemental Se(0) to mitigate the aquatic Se pollution. While thermodynamically favorable, this transformation encounters kinetic limitations, especially for selenate (SeO42-) or Se(VI). To lower the activation barrier, we investigated the electrocatalytic Se(VI) transformation using five affordable catalysts on graphite cathodes, including TiO2, underpotentially deposited Cu (UPD Cu), underpotentially deposited Cd (UPD Cd), Co, and CuFe. Among these five catalysts, we identified characteristic Se(VI) reduction peaks for TiO2 through cyclic voltammetry. Other catalysts removed less than 5% of 1-mM Se(VI) in 24-h chronoamperometry tests while leaching ppm-level metal cations in the treated water. In contrast, TiO2 as the electrocatalyst could remove more than 80% of 1-mM Se(VI) with negligible catalyst dissolution. Mechanistic investigations revealed a six-electron Se(VI)/Se(0) reduction pathway at -0.30 V (vs. Ag/AgCl), resulting in red Se(0) deposits on the TiO2-coated graphite cathode. Further potential decrease to more negative than -0.45 V led to Se(-II) formation, triggering cathodic Se(0) dissolution and surface regeneration. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy indicated that Se(VI) reduction was optimal with a moderate TiO2 loading of 0.55 mg cm-2 and acidic environments (pH=1.0∼2.5), achieving an optimized removal of 88.7 ± 2.3% under -0.70 V and an energy input of 3.6 kWh kg-1 Se. These findings lay the foundation for efficient selenate removal from impaired waters. Future efforts should evaluate catalyst performance over time and refine electrode and reactor designs to improve efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ao Xie
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama 36849, USA
| | | | - Zilan Yang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama 36849, USA
| | - Shiqiang Zou
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama 36849, USA.
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Hu Z, Zhao H, Wang B, Zhang C, Lu H. Study on the performance of biochar prepared from walnut shell and traditional graphene electrode plate in the treatment of domestic sewage in microbial fuel cells. WATER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY : A JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION ON WATER POLLUTION RESEARCH 2024; 89:2880-2893. [PMID: 38877619 DOI: 10.2166/wst.2024.163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
As a new pollutant treatment technology, microbial fuel cell (MFC) has a broad prospect. In this article, the devices assembled using walnut shells are named biochar-microbial fuel cell (B-MFC), and the devices assembled using graphene are named graphene-microbial fuel cell (G-MFC). Under the condition of an external resistance of 1,000 Ω, the B-MFC with biochar as the electrode plate can generate a voltage of up to 75.26 mV. The maximum power density is 76.61 mW/m2, and the total internal resistance is 3,117.09 Ω. The removal efficiency of B-MFC for ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), chemical oxygen demand (COD), total nitrogen (TN), and total phosphorus (TP) was higher than that of G-MFC. The results of microbial analysis showed that there was more operational taxonomic unit (OTU) on the walnut shell biochar electrode plate. The final analysis of the two electrode materials using BET specific surface area testing method (BET) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) showed that the pore size of walnut shell biochar was smaller, the specific surface area was larger, and the pore distribution was smoother. The results show that using walnut shells to make electrode plates is an optional waste recycling method and an electrode plate with excellent development prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenhua Hu
- College of Safety and Environmental Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266590, China
| | - Huifang Zhao
- College of Economics and Management, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266590, China
| | - Bingyuan Wang
- College of Safety and Environmental Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266590, China
| | - Cuijing Zhang
- College of Safety and Environmental Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266590, China
| | - Hongsheng Lu
- College of Safety and Environmental Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266590, China E-mail:
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James A, Rene ER, Bilyaminu AM, Chellam PV. Advances in amelioration of air pollution using plants and associated microbes: An outlook on phytoremediation and other plant-based technologies. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 358:142182. [PMID: 38685321 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142182] [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: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Globally, air pollution is an unfortunate aftermath of rapid industrialization and urbanization. Although the best strategy is to prevent air pollution, it is not always feasible. This makes it imperative to devise and implement techniques that can clean the air continuously. Plants and microbes have a natural potential to transform or degrade pollutants. Hence, strategies that use this potential of living biomass to remediate air pollution seem to be promising. The simplest future trend can be planting suitable plant-microbe species capable of removing air pollutants like SO2, CO2, CO, NOX and particulate matter (PM) along roadsides and inside the buildings. Established wastewater treatment strategies such as microbial fuel cells (MFC) and constructed wetlands (CW) can be suitably modified to ameliorate air pollution. Green architecture involving green walls and green roofs is facile and aesthetic, providing urban ecosystem services. Certain microbe-based bioreactors such as bioscrubbers and biofilters may be useful in small confined spaces. Several generative models have been developed to assist with planning and managing green spaces in urban locales. The physiological limitations of using living organisms can be circumvent by applying biotechnology and transgenics to improve their potential. This review provides a comprehensive update on not just the plants and associated microbes for the mitigation of air pollution, but also lists the technologies that are available and/or can be modified and used for air pollution control. The article also gives a detailed analysis of this topic in the form of strengths-weaknesses-opportunities-challenges (SWOC). The strategies mentioned in this review would help to attain corporate Environmental Social and Governance (ESG) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), while reducing carbon footprint in the urban scenario. The review aims to emphasise that urbanization is possible while tackling air pollution using facile, green techniques involving plants and associated microbes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anina James
- J & K Pocket, Dilshad Garden, Delhi, 110095, India.
| | - Eldon R Rene
- Department of Water Supply, Sanitation and Environmental Engineering, IHE Delft Institute for Water Education, Westvest 7, 2611AX, Delft, the Netherlands
| | - Abubakar M Bilyaminu
- Department of Water Supply, Sanitation and Environmental Engineering, IHE Delft Institute for Water Education, Westvest 7, 2611AX, Delft, the Netherlands
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Hartono Adji RP, Anshori I, Manurung RV, Taufiqqurrachman, Mahmudin D, Daud P, Kurniadi DP, Pristianto EJ, Rahman AN, Desvasari W, Sulistyaningsih, Mandasari RD, Hiskia, Wiranto G. A comprehensive study on transparent conducting oxides in compact microbial fuel cells: Integrated spectroscopic and electrochemical analyses for monitoring biofilm growth. Biosens Bioelectron 2024; 250:116067. [PMID: 38301542 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2024.116067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are an emerging technology that holds promise for renewable energy production and the mitigation of environmental challenges. This research paper introduces a single-compartment MFC reactor that utilizes transparent conducting oxides (TCOs), such as fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) and indium tin oxides (ITO), as the working electrodes. The effectiveness of MFCs based on FTO and ITO was evaluated by characterizing the transparent electrode and examining its performance during biofilm cultivation. Additionally, the optical properties of the biofilm grown directly on these electrodes were investigated using LEDs as a light source. The impressive average current density of 200 μA cm-2 over 100 days demonstrates the efficiency of the see-through electrodes in bioenergy extraction. The correlation between spectroscopic and microscopic analyses substantiates the feasibility of employing transparent electrodes for accurate quantification of biofilm thickness, with an initial accuracy of ±10 μm in the initial cycle, ±22 μm in the subsequent cycle, and a maximum of ±31 μm after seven days of growth. This innovative approach holds great potential for advancing our understanding of MFCs and their application in environmentally friendly energy generation and optical-based monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raden Priyo Hartono Adji
- Research Center for Telecommunications - The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Jl. Sangkuriang, KST Cisitu (Samaun Samadikun) 4th Floor, 40135, Bandung, Jawa Barat, Indonesia.
| | - Isa Anshori
- Biomedical Engineering Department, School of Electrical Engineering & Informatics, Bandung Institute of Technology, 40132, Bandung, Indonesia; Research Center for Nanosciences and Nanotechnology (RCNN), Bandung Institute of Technology, 40132, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Robeth Viktoria Manurung
- Research Center for Electronics - The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), 40135, Bandung, Jawa Barat, Indonesia
| | - Taufiqqurrachman
- Research Center for Telecommunications - The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Jl. Sangkuriang, KST Cisitu (Samaun Samadikun) 4th Floor, 40135, Bandung, Jawa Barat, Indonesia
| | - D Mahmudin
- Research Center for Telecommunications - The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Jl. Sangkuriang, KST Cisitu (Samaun Samadikun) 4th Floor, 40135, Bandung, Jawa Barat, Indonesia
| | - Pamungkas Daud
- Research Center for Telecommunications - The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Jl. Sangkuriang, KST Cisitu (Samaun Samadikun) 4th Floor, 40135, Bandung, Jawa Barat, Indonesia
| | - Deni Permana Kurniadi
- Research Center for Telecommunications - The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Jl. Sangkuriang, KST Cisitu (Samaun Samadikun) 4th Floor, 40135, Bandung, Jawa Barat, Indonesia
| | - Eko Joni Pristianto
- Research Center for Telecommunications - The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Jl. Sangkuriang, KST Cisitu (Samaun Samadikun) 4th Floor, 40135, Bandung, Jawa Barat, Indonesia
| | - Arief Nur Rahman
- Research Center for Telecommunications - The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Jl. Sangkuriang, KST Cisitu (Samaun Samadikun) 4th Floor, 40135, Bandung, Jawa Barat, Indonesia
| | - Winy Desvasari
- Research Center for Telecommunications - The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Jl. Sangkuriang, KST Cisitu (Samaun Samadikun) 4th Floor, 40135, Bandung, Jawa Barat, Indonesia
| | - Sulistyaningsih
- Research Center for Telecommunications - The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Jl. Sangkuriang, KST Cisitu (Samaun Samadikun) 4th Floor, 40135, Bandung, Jawa Barat, Indonesia
| | - Raden Deasy Mandasari
- Electrical Engineering Department, Faculty of Technology and Vocational Education, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, 40154, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Hiskia
- Directorate of Intellectual Property Management, Deputy for Research Facilitation and Innovation, The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Goib Wiranto
- Research Center for Electronics - The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), 40135, Bandung, Jawa Barat, Indonesia
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Kunwar S, Pandey N, Bhatnagar P, Chadha G, Rawat N, Joshi NC, Tomar MS, Eyvaz M, Gururani P. A concise review on wastewater treatment through microbial fuel cell: sustainable and holistic approach. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:6723-6737. [PMID: 38158529 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-31696-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Research for alternative sources for producing renewable energy is rising exponentially, and consequently, microbial fuel cells (MFCs) can be seen as a promising approach for sustainable energy production and wastewater purification. In recent years, MFC is widely utilized for wastewater treatment in which the removal efficiency of heavy metal ranges from 75-95%. They are considered as green and sustainable technology that contributes to environmental safety by reducing the demand for fossil fuels, diminishes carbon emissions, and reverses the trend of global warming. Moreover, significant reduction potential can be seen for other parameters such as total carbon oxygen demand (TCOD), soluble carbon oxygen demand (SCOD), total suspended solids (TSS), and total nitrogen (TN). Furthermore, certain problems like economic aspects, model and design of MFCs, type of electrode material, electrode cost, and concept of electro-microbiology limit the commercialization of MFC technology. As a result, MFC has never been accepted as an appreciable competitor in the area of treating wastewater or renewable energy. Therefore, more efforts are still required to develop a useful model for generating safe, clean, and CO2 emission-free renewable energy along with wastewater treatment. The purpose of this review is to provide a deep understanding of the working mechanism and design of MFC technology responsible for the removal of different pollutants from wastewater and generate power density. Existing studies related to the implementation of MFC technology in the wastewater treatment process along with the factors affecting its functioning and power outcomes have also been highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saloni Kunwar
- Department of Biotechnology, Graphic Era (Deemed to Be University), Dehradun, Uttarakhand, 248002, India
| | - Neha Pandey
- Department of Biotechnology, Graphic Era (Deemed to Be University), Dehradun, Uttarakhand, 248002, India
| | - Pooja Bhatnagar
- Algal Research and Bioenergy Laboratory, Department of Food Science & Technology, Graphic Era (Deemed to Be University), Dehradun, Uttarakhand, 248002, India
| | - Gurasees Chadha
- Department of Biotechnology, Graphic Era (Deemed to Be University), Dehradun, Uttarakhand, 248002, India
| | - Neha Rawat
- Department of Microbiology, Graphic Era (Deemed to Be University), Dehradun, Uttarakhand, 248002, India
| | - Naveen Chandra Joshi
- Division of Research and Innovation, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, 248007, India
| | - Mahipal Singh Tomar
- Department of Food Process Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, 769008, India
| | - Murat Eyvaz
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Gebze Technical University, Gebze-Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Prateek Gururani
- Department of Biotechnology, Graphic Era (Deemed to Be University), Dehradun, Uttarakhand, 248002, India.
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Zhang J, Azari R, Poerschke U, Hall DM. A Review of Potential Electrochemical Applications in Buildings for Energy Capture and Storage. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:2203. [PMID: 38138372 PMCID: PMC10746052 DOI: 10.3390/mi14122203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
The integration of distributed renewable energy technologies (such as building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV)) into buildings, especially in space-constrained urban areas, offers sustainable energy and helps offset fossil-fuel-related carbon emissions. However, the intermittent nature of these distributed renewable energy sources can negatively impact the larger power grids. Efficient onsite energy storage solutions capable of providing energy continuously can address this challenge. Traditional large-scale energy storage methods like pumped hydro and compressed air energy have limitations due to geography and the need for significant space to be economically viable. In contrast, electrochemical storage methods like batteries offer more space-efficient options, making them well suited for urban contexts. This literature review aims to explore potential substitutes for batteries in the context of solar energy. This review article presents insights and case studies on the integration of electrochemical energy harvesting and storage into buildings. The seamless integration can provide a space-efficient source of renewable energy for new buildings or existing structures that often have limited physical space for retrofitting. This work offers a comprehensive examination of existing research by reviewing the strengths and drawbacks of various technologies for electrochemical energy harvesting and storage, identifying those with the potential to integrate into building skins, and highlighting areas for future research and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingshi Zhang
- Department of Architecture, The Pennsylvania State University, State College, PA 16802, USA; (R.A.); (U.P.)
| | - Rahman Azari
- Department of Architecture, The Pennsylvania State University, State College, PA 16802, USA; (R.A.); (U.P.)
| | - Ute Poerschke
- Department of Architecture, The Pennsylvania State University, State College, PA 16802, USA; (R.A.); (U.P.)
| | - Derek M. Hall
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, State College, PA 16802, USA;
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Kumar A, Pandit S, Sharma K, Mathuriya AS, Prasad R. Evaluation of bamboo derived biochar as anode catalyst in microbial fuel cell for xylan degradation utilizing microbial co-culture. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2023; 390:129857. [PMID: 37852505 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2023.129857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to examine the microbial degradation of xylan through Bacillus sp. isolated from wastewater. Co-culture of Bacillus licheniformis strain and MTCC-8104 strain of Shewanella putrefaciens were employed in a microbial fuel cell (MFC) to facilitate energy production simultaneous xylan degradation under optimum conditions. Electrochemical properties of MFC and degradation analysis were used to validate xylan degradation throughout various experimental parameters. Degradation of the optimal xylan concentration using co-culture, resulting in a power density of 7.8 W/m3, the anode surface was modified with bamboo-derived biochar in order to increase power density under the same operational condition. Under optimum circumstances, increasing the anode's surface area boosted electron transport and electro-active biofilm growth, resulting in a higher power density of 12.9 W/m3. Co-culture of hydrolyzing and electro-active bacteria was found beneficial for xylan degradation and anode modifications enhance power output while microbial degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankit Kumar
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Basic Science and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida 201310, India
| | - Soumya Pandit
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Basic Science and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida 201310, India
| | - Kalpana Sharma
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Basic Science and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida 201310, India
| | - Abhilasha Singh Mathuriya
- Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Indira Paryavaran Bhawan, Jor Bagh, New Delhi 110003, India
| | - Ram Prasad
- Department of Botany, Mahatma Gandhi Central University, Motihari 845401, Bihar, India.
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Montoya-Vallejo C, Gil Posada JO, Quintero-Díaz JC. Enhancement of Electricity Production in Microbial Fuel Cells Using a Biosurfactant-Producing Co-Culture. Molecules 2023; 28:7833. [PMID: 38067562 PMCID: PMC10708063 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28237833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Microbial fuel cells are bio-electrochemical devices that enable the conversion of chemical energy into bioelectricity. In this manuscript, the use of biosurfactants (Tween 80 and surfactin) and the effect of coculturing E. coli and L. plantarum were used to investigate the generation of bioelectricity coming from an H-type microbial fuel cell. In this setup, E. coli acts as an electron donor while L. plantarum acts as an in situ biosurfactant producer. It was observed that the use of exogenous surfactants enhanced electricity production compared to conventional E. coli cultures. The utilization of Tween 80 and surfactin increased the power generation from 204 µW m-2 to 506 µW m-2 and 577 µW m-2, respectively. Furthermore, co-culturing E. coli and L. plantarum also resulted in a higher power output compared to pure cultures (132.8% more when compared to using E. coli alone and 68.1% more when compared to using L. plantarum alone). Due to the presence of surfactants, the internal resistance of the cell was reduced. The experimental evidence collected here clearly indicates that the production of endogenous surfactants, as well as the addition of exogenous surfactants, will enhance MFC electricity production.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Juan Carlos Quintero-Díaz
- Grupo de Bioprocesos, Departamento de Ingeniería Química, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín 050010, Colombia; (C.M.-V.); (J.O.G.P.)
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Apollon W. An Overview of Microbial Fuel Cell Technology for Sustainable Electricity Production. MEMBRANES 2023; 13:884. [PMID: 37999370 PMCID: PMC10672772 DOI: 10.3390/membranes13110884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
The over-exploitation of fossil fuels and their negative environmental impacts have attracted the attention of researchers worldwide, and efforts have been made to propose alternatives for the production of sustainable and clean energy. One proposed alternative is the implementation of bioelectrochemical systems (BESs), such as microbial fuel cells (MFCs), which are sustainable and environmentally friendly. MFCs are devices that use bacterial activity to break down organic matter while generating sustainable electricity. Furthermore, MFCs can produce bioelectricity from various substrates, including domestic wastewater (DWW), municipal wastewater (MWW), and potato and fruit wastes, reducing environmental contamination and decreasing energy consumption and treatment costs. This review focuses on recent advancements regarding the design, configuration, and operation mode of MFCs, as well as their capacity to produce bioelectricity (e.g., 2203 mW/m2) and fuels (i.e., H2: 438.7 mg/L and CH4: 358.7 mg/L). Furthermore, this review highlights practical applications, challenges, and the life-cycle assessment (LCA) of MFCs. Despite the promising biotechnological development of MFCs, great efforts should be made to implement them in a real-time and commercially viable manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilgince Apollon
- Department of Agricultural and Food Engineering, Faculty of Agronomy, Autonomous University of Nuevo León, Francisco Villa S/N, Ex-Hacienda El Canadá, General Escobedo 66050, Nuevo León, Mexico
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Fox S, Stadnik K, Thakur AK, Farkash L, Ronen Z, Oren Y, Gilron J. Oxyanion Removal from Impaired Water by Donnan Dialysis Plug Flow Contactors. MEMBRANES 2023; 13:856. [PMID: 37999342 PMCID: PMC10673252 DOI: 10.3390/membranes13110856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
In the last twenty-five years, extensive work has been done on ion exchange membrane bioreactors (IEMB) combining Donnan dialysis and anaerobic reduction to remove trace oxyanions (e.g., perchlorate, nitrate, chlorate, arsenate) from contaminated water sources. Most studies used Donnan dialysis contactors with high recirculation rates on the feed side, so under continuous operation, the effective concentration on the feed side of the membrane is the same as the exit concentration (CSTR mode). We have built, characterized, and modelled a plug flow Donnan dialysis contactor (PFR) that maximizes concentration on the feed side and operated it on feed solutions spiked with perchlorate and nitrate ion using ACS and PCA-100 anion exchange membranes. At identical feed inlet concentrations with the ACS membrane, membrane area loading rates are three-fold greater, and fluxes are more than double in the PFR contactor than in the CSTR contactor. A model based on the nonlinear adsorption of perchlorate in ACS membrane correctly predicted the trace ion concentration as a function of space-time in experiments with ACS. For PCA membrane, a linear flux dependence on feed concentration correctly described trace ion feed concentration as a function of space-time. Anion permeability for PCA-100 was high enough that the overall mass transfer was affected by the film boundary layer resistance. These results provide a basis for efficiently scaling up Donnan dialysis contactors and incorporating them in full-scale IEMB setups.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Jack Gilron
- Zuckerberg Institute for Water Research, Blaustein Institutes of Desert Research, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Midreshet Ben-Gurion 84990, Israel; (S.F.); (K.S.); (A.K.T.); (L.F.); (Z.R.); (Y.O.)
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Sakr EAE, Khater DZ, Kheiralla ZMH, El-Khatib KM. Statistical optimization of waste molasses-based exopolysaccharides and self-sustainable bioelectricity production for dual chamber microbial fuel cell by Bacillus piscis. Microb Cell Fact 2023; 22:202. [PMID: 37803422 PMCID: PMC10559494 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-023-02216-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The application of exopolysaccharide-producing bacteria (EPS) in dual chamber microbial fuel cells (DCMFC) is critical which can minimize the chemical oxygen demand (COD) of molasses with bioelectricity production. Hence, our study aimed to evaluate the EPS production by the novel strain Bacillus piscis by using molasses waste. Therefore, statistical modeling was used to optimize the EPS production. Its structure was characterized by UV, FTIR, NMR, and monosaccharides compositions. Eventually, to highlight B. piscis' adaptability in energy applications, bioelectricity production by this organism was studied in the BCMFC fed by an optimized molasses medium. RESULTS B. piscis OK324045 characterized by 16S rRNA is a potent EPS-forming organism and yielded a 6.42-fold increase upon supplementation of molasses (5%), MgSO4 (0.05%), and inoculum size (4%). The novel exopolysaccharide produced by Bacillus sp. (EPS-BP5M) was confirmed by the structural analysis. The findings indicated that the MFC's maximum close circuit voltage (CCV) was 265 mV. The strain enhanced the performance of DCMFC achieving maximum power density (PD) of 31.98 mW m-2, COD removal rate of 90.91%, and color removal of 27.68%. Furthermore, cyclic voltammetry (CV) revealed that anodic biofilms may directly transfer electrons to anodes without the use of external redox mediators. Additionally, CV measurements made at various sweep scan rates to evaluate the kinetic studies showed that the electron charge transfer was irreversible. The SEM images showed the biofilm growth distributed over the electrode's surface. CONCLUSIONS This study offers a novel B. piscis strain for EPS-BP5M production, COD removal, decolorization, and electricity generation of the optimized molasses medium in MFCs. The biosynthesis of EPS-BP5M by a Bacillus piscis strain and its electrochemical activity has never been documented before. The approach adopted will provide significant benefits to sugar industries by generating bioelectricity using molasses as fuel and providing a viable way to improve molasses wastewater treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebtehag A E Sakr
- Botany Department, Faculty of Women for Arts, Science and Education, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Dena Z Khater
- Chemical Engineering and Pilot Plant Department, National Research Centre (NRC), El Buhouth St., Cairo, 12622, Dokki, Egypt
| | - Zeinab M H Kheiralla
- Botany Department, Faculty of Women for Arts, Science and Education, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Kamel M El-Khatib
- Chemical Engineering and Pilot Plant Department, National Research Centre (NRC), El Buhouth St., Cairo, 12622, Dokki, Egypt
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Ghoniem RM, Wilberforce T, Rezk H, As’ad S, Alahmer A. Boosting Power Density of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Using Artificial Intelligence and Optimization Algorithms. MEMBRANES 2023; 13:817. [PMID: 37887989 PMCID: PMC10608473 DOI: 10.3390/membranes13100817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
The adoption of Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cells (FCs) is of great significance in diverse industries, as they provide high efficiency and environmental advantages, enabling the transition to sustainable and clean energy solutions. This study aims to enhance the output power of PEM-FCs by employing the Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) and modern optimization algorithms. Initially, an ANFIS model is developed based on empirical data to simulate the output power density of the PEM-FC, considering factors such as pressure, relative humidity, and membrane compression. The Salp swarm algorithm (SSA) is subsequently utilized to determine the optimal values of the input control parameters. The three input control parameters of the PEM-FC are treated as decision variables during the optimization process, with the objective to maximize the output power density. During the modeling phase, the training and testing data exhibit root mean square error (RMSE) values of 0.0003 and 24.5, respectively. The coefficient of determination values for training and testing are 1.0 and 0.9598, respectively, indicating the successfulness of the modeling process. The reliability of SSA is further validated by comparing its outcomes with those obtained from particle swarm optimization (PSO), evolutionary optimization (EO), and grey wolf optimizer (GWO). Among these methods, SSA achieves the highest average power density of 716.63 mW/cm2, followed by GWO at 709.95 mW/cm2. The lowest average power density of 695.27 mW/cm2 is obtained using PSO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rania M. Ghoniem
- Department of Information Technology, College of Computer and Information Sciences, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Tabbi Wilberforce
- Department of Engineering, Faculty of Natural, Mathematical & Engineering Sciences, King’s College London, London WC2R 2LS, UK;
| | - Hegazy Rezk
- Department of Electrical Engineering, College of Engineering in Wadi Alddawasir, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Riyadh 11942, Saudi Arabia;
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Minia University, Elminia 61519, Egypt
| | - Samer As’ad
- Renewable Energy Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Middle East University, Amman 11831, Jordan;
| | - Ali Alahmer
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, AL 36088, USA
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tafila Technical University, Tafila 66110, Jordan
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14
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Palanisamy G, Muhammed AP, Thangarasu S, Oh TH. Investigating the Sulfonated Chitosan/Polyvinylidene Fluoride-Based Proton Exchange Membrane with fSiO 2 as Filler in Microbial Fuel Cells. MEMBRANES 2023; 13:758. [PMID: 37755180 PMCID: PMC10536340 DOI: 10.3390/membranes13090758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Chitosan (CS), a promising potential biopolymer with exquisite biocompatibility, economic viability, hydrophilicity, and chemical modifications, has drawn interest as an alternative material for proton exchange membrane (PEM) fabrication. However, CS in its original form exhibited low proton conductivity and mechanical stability, restricting its usage in PEM development. In this work, chitosan was functionalized (sulfonic acid (-SO3H) groups)) to enhance proton conductivity. The sulfonated chitosan (sCS) was blended with polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) polymer, along with the incorporation of functionalized SiO2 (-OH groups), for fabricating chitosan-based composite proton exchange membranes to enhance microbial fuel cell (MFC) performances. The results show that adding functionalized inorganic fillers (fSiO2) into the membrane enhances the mechanical, thermal, and anti-biofouling behavior. From the results, the PVDF/sCS/fSiO2 composite membrane exhibited enhanced proton conductivity 1.0644 × 10-2 S cm-1 at room temperature and increased IEC and mechanical and chemical stability. Furthermore, this study presents a revolutionary way to generate environmentally friendly natural polymer-based membrane materials for developing PEM candidates for enhanced MFC performances in generating bioelectricity and wastewater treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Tae Hwan Oh
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 8541, Republic of Korea; (A.P.M.); (S.T.)
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15
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Kieu TQH, Nguyen TY, Do CL. Treatment of Organic and Sulfate/Sulfide Contaminated Wastewater and Bioelectricity Generation by Sulfate-Reducing Bioreactor Coupling with Sulfide-Oxidizing Fuel Cell. Molecules 2023; 28:6197. [PMID: 37687026 PMCID: PMC10488401 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28176197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
A wastewater treatment system has been established based on sulfate-reducing and sulfide-oxidizing processes for treating organic wastewater containing high sulfate/sulfide. The influence of COD/SO42- ratio and hydraulic retention time (HRT) on removal efficiencies of sulfate, COD, sulfide and electricity generation was investigated. The continuous operation of the treatment system was carried out for 63 days with the optimum COD/SO42- ratio and HRT. The result showed that the COD and sulfate removal efficiencies were stable, reaching 94.8 ± 0.6 and 93.0 ± 1.3% during the operation. A power density level of 18.0 ± 1.6 mW/m2 was obtained with a sulfide removal efficiency of 93.0 ± 1.2%. However, the sulfide removal efficiency and power density decreased gradually after 45 days. The results from scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with an energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) show that sulfur accumulated on the anode, which could explain the decline in sulfide oxidation and electricity generation. This study provides a promising treatment system to scale up for its actual applications in this type of wastewater.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thi Quynh Hoa Kieu
- Institute of Biotechnology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet Str., Cau Giay, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
| | - Thi Yen Nguyen
- Institute of Biotechnology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
| | - Chi Linh Do
- Institute of Material Sciences, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
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