Microbial Fuel Cells

Microbial Fuel Cells

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A rapidly developing technology in the production of biological electricity

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A typical MFC has two rings, anodic and cathodic, and a

proton exchange membrane.

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MFCs are systems that can convert chemical energy in organic wastes directly into electrical energy by

microorganisms.

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MFCs usually consist of a membrane with an anode and cathode chamber where electrochemical reactions take

place. Microorganisms that grow in the anode compartment

turn the organics in the wastewater into hydrogen ions and

electrons.

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In the process, microorganisms in the anodic chamber metabolize organic substrates, produce electrons and protons (electrons are on the surface of the anode), and

then shift to the cathodic part. The protons are transferred to the cathodic part via the proton exchange membrane.

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In the cathodic chamber, both electrons and protons ensure

that oxygen is reduced to water.

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Because of the presence of O2, a strong electron acceptor, and H +s that generate a positive electrical charge, the

electrons in the anode are drawn towards the cathode,

which generates electric current on the line.

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The most widely used MFC is traditional H- shaped systems with the advantage of

cheap production.

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In this conventional H design, the

membrane is placed in the middle of the pipe connecting the two bottles. Cost can be reduced by using agar and salt instead of membrane. Due to the high internal

resistance of MFC used in salt bridges, it

has low energy efficiency.

Sustainability of large-scale biofuel production is closely related to:

1. GHG emissions such as carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide should be less than fossil fuel

2. When producing biofuel, food prices should not compete with food production

3. When producing biofuels, the natural ecosystem should not be degraded and water accessibility should not be reduced.

4. The structure of the soil should not be disturbed by the chemicals used in the production of biofuel

5. contribute to local economy while producing biofuels 6. While producing biofuels, social status and population

of employees should not be adversely affected.