The microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are electrochemical power generation devices using viable microorganisms to convert chemical energy into electricity, without relying on abiotic catalysts and fossil fuels to mitigate environmental and ecological pollution. That electrochemically active microorganism can generate protons and electrons in the anodic compartment. The MFCs can convert chemical energy into electrical current by utilizing the bio-catalytic microbes, capable to use a wide range of organic matters as fuel feedstocks. The electrochemically active microorganism can generate protons and electrons in the anodic compartment. In this presentation, we will discuss the synthesis of cathode & anode catalysts and polymeric membrane electrolytes for MFCs with improved power density. The electrochemical performance and stability of the MFC devices (single cells) will be also presented and compared with published results.<br/><br/>Our study indicated that the improvement of electrochemical performance of the MFC devices can be fulfilled using various nanoscaled electrocatalysts (particularly the cathodic catalyst) and homogeneity of the membranes. These different materials were produced using colloidal chemistry, radiofrequency deposition, and plasma-assisted chemical vapor deposition. Series of materials include biota-inspired metal oxides, single atomic metal, carbon nanotubes, graphene quantum dots, and metal-organic frameworks as cathode and anode catalysts, and different formulations of modified polymer membranes as electrolytes. Based on the structural characterization and performance of the devices, we further optimize the synthesis variable to enhance the stability and reactivities of these nanocatalysts.

Strctural design and electrochemical evaluation of catalysts used in microbial fuel cells

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

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