Optimization of electrochemical performance requires careful control of various parameters. This work describes one approach to achieve high current densities. A previously enriched anode consortium was grown under controlled flow and step-wise increase in organic loading. The current density increased from 2.5A/m2 to 35 A/m2 over a period of 50 days. During this period, the organic loading was increased from 1.25 g/l-day to 5.0 g/l-day. The coulombic efficiency (CE) ranged from 50% to 80% during this period. The maximum current density obtained under continuous flow and limited substrate addition to achieve a high coulombic efficiency of 80% was 13 A/m2. The substrate was a mixture of glucose and lactate. Results from voltammetric and chronoamperometric analysis will also be presented to further assess the consistency in production of high levels of current.

Optimizing current density and coulombic efficiency via controlled electro-active biofilm growth

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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