Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) provides a sustainable means to obtain electricity from organic matter at room temperatures. The theoretical potential in a given MFC is limited by the type and concentration of the electron donor and electron acceptor; reactor architecture; and inherent electrochemical losses. In this study, we demonstrate the superior, electrical performance of MFC stack vs. unit-cell of equivalent size. The series-stack was associated with a high external voltage (1.2 V), and with a high internal impedance (RA=129 ?). On the other hand, in a parallel connection, the best performing cell beared most of the external load resulting in lower overall internal impedance (RA=39 ?). In a parallel stack, the disadvantage of a lower external voltage (0.7 V) was overcome by a higher output current at all operating voltages.

Stack of Shewanella-based microbial fuel cells to obtain 1.1 V DC power source

245th National Meeting (2013)

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