Discover insights from thousands of peer-reviewed papers on microbial electrochemical systems
, Christianus Y. N. Bhae, Umbu N. Limbu et al.
International Journal of Life Science and Agriculture Research · 2024
Livestock waste consists of two types of waste, namely liquid and solid. Solid waste consists of animal manure and leftover animal feed, while liquid waste consists of livestock sanitation wastewater, animal urine, and barn wash water. One example of a renewable energy source that has not yet been fully utilized is organic materials, one of which is cow dung. Cow manure can be used as a basic material in the production of biogas through an anaerobic fermentation process to generate energy. The aim of this research is to use cow dung as organic waste as an alternative energy source for biogas and simultaneously reduce the environmental pollution impact of livestock waste. The research methods used were observation and experimentation to determine how to produce biogas from cow dung waste. The research results indicate that there is a high possibility that cow dung can be used as an organic raw material to produce biogas. Methane gas can be produced during the production process starting from the 16th day after fermentation and continuing until the 25th day. A longer fermentation process results in a larger gas volume, as indicated by the daily increase in digester volume.
Nabil Fariz Noorrahman, Ardi Sandriya, Paulini Paulini
Jurnal Sain Peternakan Indonesia · 2024
As the global population continues to grow, there is a corresponding increase in energy consumption annually. The need for alternative energy sources is evident in light of the finite reserves of oil. Briquettes are a renewable energy option that can help decrease reliance on oil. Briquettes can be produced through the utilization of organic waste materials. This research was carried out from 19 September to 18 October 2023, at the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Palangka Raya, and the Analytical Laboratory, Muhammadiyah University, Palangka Raya. The aim of this research is to determine the quality of briquettes made using cow dung charcoal and cooking oil as an adhesive. The parameters of this research are water content, ash content, burn rate, and colorific value. This research used a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) model with 4 treatments and each treatment was repeated 5 times so that there were 20 experimental units. The composition of the briquettes consists of (P1) = 90% cow dung and 10% used cooking oil, (P2): 87.5% cow dung and 12.5% used cooking oil, (P3): 85% cow dung and 15% used cooking oil and (P4): 82.5% cow dung and 17.5% used cooking oil. The results of variance analysis showed that the parameters of water content, ash content, burn rate, and colorific value did not show a significant influence between treatments (P>0.05) although there was a trend that P1 and P3 were better than the other treatments. It was concluded that the best quality of briquettes in terms of water content and ash content was in the P1 treatment (Briquettes with a composition of 90% cow dung and 10% used cooking oil), whereas if viewed from the burning rate and calorific value of the best briquettes, it was the P3 treatment (Briquettes with a composition of 85 % cow dung and 15% used cooking oil).
Tanvir Ahmed, Bashir Ahmad
The Pakistan Development Review · 2014
This paper identified the factors influencing the rice crop residue burning decision of the farmers and the potential of the burnt residue to generate electricity. For this study, data were collected from 400 farmers in the rice-wheat cropping system. Effects of different variables on the burning decision of rice residue are investigated through logit model. A number of factors had significant effects on the burning decision of crop residue. These included farming experience of the farmer, Rajput caste, farm size, owner operated farm, owner-cum-tenants operated farm, silty loam soil type, livestock strength, total cost associated with the handling of residue and preparation of wheat field after rice, availability of farm machinery for incorporation, use of residue as feed for animals, use of residue as fuel, intention of the respondent to reduce turnaround time between harvesting of rice and sowing of wheat, convenience in use of farm machinery after burning of residue and the geographic location of farm. The overall quantity of rice straw burnt is estimated to be 1704.91 thousand tonnes in the rice-wheat cropping areas with a potential to generate electric power of 162.51 MW. This power generation from crop residues would be a source of income for the farmers along with generation of additional employment opportunities and economic activities on sustainable basis. In order to minimise the cost of haulage of rice straw, installation of decentralised power plants at village level would be a good option. Further, use of rice crop residue as an energy source can help in reducing foreign exchange requirements for import of furnace oil. JEL Classification: O44, Q12, Q16, Q42, Q48 Keywords: Bioenergy, Crop Residue, Electricity, Energy, Growth, Rice
Arna Ganguly, Pingping Sun, Xinyu Liu et al.
Green Chemistry · 2025
Biowastes are produced daily. These wastes are rich in organic components with high potential to produce valuable products such as BioH 2 and CO 2 . This study explores wastes converted into low-cost BioH 2 through integrated processes.
Zhangwei He, Aijuan Zhou, Chunxue Yang et al.
RSC Advances · 2015
A novel and attractive technology for renewable bioenergy recovery from WAS and sludge reduction has been investigated.
Sureewan Sittijunda, Sulfan Baka, Rattana Jariyaboon et al.
Fermentation · 2022
This study aimed to enhance dark fermentative hydrogen production from co-digestion of distillery wastewater (DW) and glycerol waste (GW) through integration with microbial electrolysis cells. First, the optimal proportion of DW and GW in hydrogen production was investigated in batch mode. The results show that DW and GW co-digestion at a ratio of 99:1 (% v/v) gave the highest hydrogen yield of 149.5 mL-H2/g − VSadded. Continuous hydrogen production using the optimal proportion was conducted in a continuously stirred tank reactor. As a result, a maximal hydrogen yield of 99.7 mL-H2/g − VSadded was achieved, and the dominant hydrogen-producing bacterium was Clostridium sensu stricto 7. The dark fermentation effluent from the continuously stirred tank reactor was later used to produce methane using batch MECs. The maximum methane yield of 115.1 mL-CH4/g − VSadded was obtained under an applied voltage of 1 V and continuous stirring at 120–140 rpm. Microbial community analysis revealed that Metahnobacterium, Methanomethylovorans, Methanoculleus, and Methanosarcina were the methanogenic archaea in the microbial electrolysis cell reactor.
Qing Zhao, Heran Wang, Rufei Liu et al.
Energies · 2025
This study developed a system (MEC-AD) by integrating a single-chamber microbial electrolysis cell (MEC) with anaerobic digestion (AD), aiming to enhance the conversion efficiency of kitchen waste (KW) into biomethane and optimize metabolic pathways. The performance and microbial metabolic mechanisms of MEC-AD were investigated and compared with those of conventional AD, through inoculation with original inoculum (UAD) and electrically domesticated inoculum (EAD), respectively. The results show that the MEC-AD system achieved a CH4 yield of 223.12 mL/g VS, which was 31.27% and 25.24% higher than that of conventional UAD and EAD, respectively. The system also obtained total solid (TS) and volatile solid (VS) conversion rates of 82.32% and 83.39%, respectively. Furthermore, the MEC-AD system enhanced the degradation of soluble chemical oxygen demand (SCOD) and mitigated biogas production stagnation by reducing the accumulation of volatile fatty acids (VFAs) as intermediate products. Microbial metagenomics analysis revealed that the MEC-AD system enhanced microbial diversity and enriched functional genera abundance, facilitating substrate degradation and syntrophic relationships. At the molecular level, the system upregulated the expression of key enzyme-encoding genes, thereby simultaneously strengthening both direct interspecies electron transfer (DIET) and mediated interspecies electron transfer (MIET) pathways for methanogenesis. These findings demonstrate that MEC-AD significantly improves methane production through multi-pathway synergies, representing an innovative solution for efficient KW-to-biomethane conversion.
Yinghong Feng, Yiwen Liu, Yaobin Zhang
Environmental Science: Water Research & Technology · 2015
Cheap Fe/graphite electrodes substantially enhanced hydrogen production from anaerobic waste activated sludge digestion in a microbial electrolysis cell.
Gerasimos Kanellos, Michail Antarachas, Gerasimos Lyberatos et al.
Waste and Biomass Valorization · 2025
Abstract This study deals with the feasibility of Cheese Whey (CW) treatment using a Microbial Electrolysis Cell-Anaerobic Digestion (MEC-AD) system. For this purpose, two identical reactors were constructed, a control (AD) and a MEC-AD reactor. The MEC-AD operated for 310 d and the effects of (a) CW pretreatment, (b) Organic Loading Rate (from 1.4 to 3.3 g COD /(L d)) and (c) applied potential (1 and 2 V) were examined on the MEC-AD performance. The results showed that the AD reactor failed to treat CW in every case examined, whereas the MEC-AD successfully treated the CW. In particular, the optimal CW treatment was obtained with the pretreated CW, at the OLR of 2.1 g COD /(L d) and at the applied potential of 1 V and achieved a COD removal of 98% and a residual COD concentration of 1.2 g COD /L. The optimal CH 4 yield was obtained with the pretreated CW, at the OLR of 3.3 g COD /(L d) and at the applied potential of 1 V and was 0.75 L CH4 /g sCODconsumed , higher than any yield obtained utilizing AD systems. Overall, the results showed that the MEC-AD system is a very promising technology for treating CW with simultaneous CH 4 production, whereas the AD process fails. Graphical Abstract
Weiwei Cai, Wenzong Liu, Dan Cui et al.
RSC Advances · 2016
Anaerobic fermentation liquid from waste activated sludge with a rich content of organics and phosphate ions is a promising source of carbon and electrolytes for MECs.
Laura del-Río-Carazo, Emiliano Acquila-Natale, Santiago Iglesías-Pradas et al.
Energies · 2022
Universal access to energy is a global challenge for sustainable development that requires granting last-mile access to energy services to rural and isolated communities. However, achieving access is not sufficient: it must be done affordably, reliably and with an adequate quality. Universal access to energy goes beyond the mere selection of a technical solution or infrastructure; it demands being able to design management models for projects aiming to guarantee that households may access energy services in a sustainable way. This study analyzes the main elements (i.e., governance, technological and business models) of management models in universal access to energy projects and their impact on the different dimensions of sustainability (i.e., social, environmental, and economic). The study then presents three case studies of rural electrification projects having different configurations of the management model, with special focus on the differences in the business model, and it analyzes their outcomes from a sustainability perspective. The analysis of the three case studies suggests that the choice of the business model is key to ensuring sustainability, with fee-for-service models giving the best results. The analysis also highlights the importance of collaboration and involvement of the communities in projects engaging multiple agents with different roles.
Abhishek Kumar, X. He, Y. Dang et al.
Energy & Environmental Science · 2022
This work proposes a sustainable socio-techno-economic-environmental-political (STEEP) microgrid design framework utilizing locally accessible energy sources for rural electrification for developing/least-developing countries. In the proposed STEEP microgrid framework, four layers of...
R. Samikannu, M. T. Oladiran, Gladys Gamariel et al.
International Transactions on Electrical Energy Systems · 2022
This research focuses on an assessment and design of a hybrid Photo Voltaic (PV)-wind system for rural electrification in Jamataka village, Botswana. The assessment revealed the most pressing factors for the need for reliable energy and the issues that the village community had with existing electricity sources. Hybrid Optimization of Multiple Energy Resources (HOMER) software was used to perform all the hybrid system configurations, simulations, and selections. The assessment research was carried out using questionnaires and physical data collection on site. With a peak load of 27.31 kW, the annual average demand is 165.29 kWh/day. The results show that the PV/wind/battery system generates the most economic and technical benefits, as measured by the Net Present Cost (NPC). Due to the high initial expenditures on renewable energy systems, the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) of the system is 65 percent higher than the present energy cost in Botswana for households and 57 percent higher for companies. The International Renewable Energy Agency’s global report of renewable energy generation costs between 2010 and 2020 revealed a significant decrease, with utility-scale solar PV costs falling by 85% and onshore wind costs falling by 56 percent. As a result, the LCOE decreases as the cost of renewable energy decreases. Subsidies for renewable energy systems, on the other hand, can significantly reduce the LCOE.
Flavio Odoi-Yorke, Stephen Abaase, M. Zebilila et al.
Cogent Engineering · 2022
Abstract Globally, reliable access to electricity improves people’s well-being, provides quality education, and promotes good health. Greenhouse gas emissions associated with fossil fuel combustion have incited an intense interest in low-carbon technologies for power generation. This study analyses the prospect of utilising a solar PV/biogas/battery hybrid energy system to provide electricity for Ghana’s remote communities. The study goal is to utilise locally available renewable energy resources to achieve a cost-effective levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. Hybrid Optimisation of Multiple Energy Resources (HOMER) software was employed to model and analyse the hybrid energy system’s technical, economic, and environmental aspects. The findings indicate that PV/biogas/battery system perform better than PV/diesel/battery and diesel-only systems in terms of cost and emissions reductions. Also, the LCOE generated from the PV/biogas/battery system is around 0.256 $/kWh. However, this LCOE is only about 64% higher than the LCOE for Ghana’s household residents. The sensitivity test indicates that the PV/biogas/battery system is sensitive to discount rates and capital subsidies, making it attractive for future development. This attests that Ghanaian rural communities without electricity access and with substantial biomass potential are likely to be electrified when given the necessary attention. Moreover, this project could be a viable alternative to rural electrification in Ghana with proper investment support.
M. Islam, Homeyra Akter, H. Howlader et al.
Energies · 2022
The absence of electricity is among the gravest problems preventing a nation’s development. Hybrid renewable energy systems (HRES) play a vital role to reducing this issue. The major goal of this study is to use the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA)-II and hybrid optimization of multiple energy resources (HOMER) Pro Software to reduce the net present cost (NPC), cost of energy (COE), and CO2 emissions of proposed power system. Five cases have been considered to understand the optimal HRES system for Kutubdia Island in Bangladesh and analyzed the technical viability and economic potential of this system. To demonstrate the efficacy of the suggested strategy, the best case outcomes from the two approaches are compared. The study’s optimal solution is also subjected to a sensitivity analysis to take into account fluctuations in the annual wind speed, solar radiation, and fuel costs. According to the data, the optimized PV/Wind/Battery/DG system (USD 711,943) has a lower NPC than the other cases. The NPC obtained by the NSGA-II technique is 2.69% lower than that of the HOMER-based system.
Lucas Richard, Nicolas Saincy, Nolwenn Le Saux et al.
IEEE Electrification Magazine · 2023
Highlighted by the United Nations sustainable Development Goals to ensure universal access to clean, reliable, and modern energy services by 2030, the world is increasingly becoming concerned by energy poverty and its consequences on human development and the environment. Yet, even if numerous initiatives and a significant amount of money are directly addressed to tackle the energy-access challenges, a billion people are still denied access to basic and modern electricity services, especially in rural areas of sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia. In the past two decades, the African continent has seen an encouraging improvement as the number of people gaining access to electricity rose from 9 million per year between 2000 and 2013 to 20 million per year between 2014 and 2019, outpacing population growth for the first time. However, most of those recent improvements are restricted mainly to urban and peri-urban areas of a small number of countries located in eastern or western Africa. Also, the population without access to electricity in Africa is expected to increase in the coming years following the health crisis and economic downturn caused by COVID-19. This definitely proves the fragility and poor resilience of the electrification solutions favored today. While grid extension and conventional microgrids suffer from low inclusivity and replicability, solar home systems are only a stopgap measure and fail to boost socioeconomic development. A third way must be proposed to combine quick and affordable access to basic electricity services and community uplift through socioeconomic development, answering the two greatest challenges that developing countries are struggling to cope with today. With this objective in mind, Nanoé, a French–Malagasy social company, is developing the lateral electrification model, based on the collaborative and progressing building of electric infrastructures, which is presented in this article, first from a general point of view and then through a focus on Nanoé’s experience in Madagascar.
Femi Oluwatoyin Omole, Oladiran Kayode Olajiga, Tosin Michael Olatunde
Engineering Science & Technology Journal · 2024
Rural electrification is a critical aspect of sustainable development, aiming to bridge the energy gap in remote and underserved areas. This paper provides a comprehensive review of global policies and case studies related to challenges and successes in rural electrification. The challenges in rural electrification are multifaceted and often rooted in economic, geographic, and social factors. Limited financial resources, vast and difficult terrains, and sparse population density pose significant hurdles. Additionally, socio-cultural aspects and community dynamics influence the acceptance and sustainability of electrification projects. Understanding and addressing these challenges is crucial for the success of rural electrification initiatives. On the policy front, various nations and international organizations have implemented diverse approaches to tackle these challenges. This review examines the effectiveness of different policy frameworks, exploring their impact on the speed and sustainability of rural electrification. Policies encompass financial incentives, regulatory frameworks, and technology deployment strategies, with an emphasis on fostering public-private partnerships. The paper also delves into case studies from different regions, providing insights into both successful and unsuccessful attempts at rural electrification. Examining these cases helps identify common patterns, lessons learned, and best practices that can inform future initiatives. Successful projects often involve a combination of innovative financing models, community engagement, and the integration of renewable energy sources tailored to local conditions. This paper underscores the importance of a holistic and context-specific approach to rural electrification. Global policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders can draw valuable lessons from both challenges and successes to refine strategies and enhance the impact of rural electrification initiatives worldwide. As the world continues to strive for universal energy access, this review contributes to the ongoing dialogue on shaping effective policies and practices in the realm of rural electrification. Keywords: Rural Electrification, Global Policies, Renewable Energy, Energy Financing, Review.
Rana Bahadur Thapa, Bishnu Raj Upreti, Durga Devkota et al.
Journal of Asian Rural Studies · 2020
Access to electricity is generally recognized as an important factor for economic and social development. Moreover, the world energy consumption depends on the use of limited resources like fossil fuels that induce adverse impact on the environment and society. As an alternative, renewable energies turn into crucial alternative energy ensuring sustainable energy needs and taking care of society, economy and the environment. In order to combat such issues, the United Nations has declared universal access to affordable, reliable and modern energy for by 2030. In many cases, different types of renewable energy systems are being developed to serve energy need without considering the best alternative. Thus, this paper tries to prioritize the installed Decentralized Renewable Energy (DRE) systems for rural electrification in Nepal by analyzing nineteen sustainability indicators related to four sustainability dimensions - technical, social, economic and environmental. An Analytical Hierarchy Process-Online Software (AHP-OS) model is used for ranking various DRE systems. Suitable goals, criteria, sub-criteria, and alternatives are developed after reviewing pertinent literature and consultation of the experts. The results reveal that micro-hydropower is the best electrification option followed by the solar home system, solar mini-grid, and wind-solar hybrid for decentralized electrification in Nepal. Biomass is found to be the least prioritized alternative in Nepal. The outcome of the research can help the policy-makers and decision-makers in shaping energy policies, plans, and programs, and foster sustainable energy development in the country. Similarly, the relevant stakeholders will be benefited by improving their products and services in the future.
Akinola Sunday Oladeji, Mudathir Funsho Akorede, Salihu Aliyu et al.
International Journal of Renewable Energy Development · 2021
There is a need to develop an optimization tool that can be applied in the feasibility study of a hybrid renewable energy system to find the optimal capacity of different renewable energy resources and support the decision makers in their performance investigation. A multi-objective function which minimizes the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) and Loss of Load Probability Index (LLPI) but maximizes the novel Energy Match Ratio (EMR) was formulated. Simulation-based optimization method combined with ε-constraint technique was developed to solve the multi-objective optimization problem. In the study, ten-year hourly electrical load demand, using the end-use model, is estimated for the communities. The performance of the developed algorithm was evaluated and validated using Hybrid Optimization Model for Electric Renewables (HOMER®) optimization software. The developed algorithm minimized the LCOE by 6.27% and LLPI by 167% when compared with the values of LCOE ($0.444/kWh) and LLPI (0.000880) obtained from the HOMER® optimization tool. Also, the LCOE with the proposed approach was calculated at $0.417/kWh, which is lower than the $0.444/kWh obtained from HOMER®. From environmental perspective, it is found that while 141,370.66 kg of CO2 is saved in the base year, 183,206.51 kg of CO2 is saved in the ninth year.The study concluded that the approach is computationally efficient and performed better than HOMER® for this particular problem.The proposed approach could be adopted for carrying out feasibility studies and design of HRES for Off-Grid electrification, especially in the rural areas where access to the grid electricity is limited
Muhammad Faseeh Memon, Khairul Nisak Bt Md Hasan, Z. Memon
Geological Journal · 2025
The imperative shift toward renewable energy sources is driven by escalating climate change concerns and the depletion of fossil fuels. Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) present a promising solution by converting organic matter into electricity through microbial metabolism. This study aims to develop a portable MFC capable of powering soil moisture sensors to enhance sustainable agricultural practices in remote regions of Malaysia. Cow manure and human waste were employed as substrates due to their high organic content and microbial diversity, which emphasises their potential in sustainable energy generation. Carbon sheet electrodes of varying sizes (7 cm × 5 cm and 3 cm × 5 cm) were tested to optimise electrochemical performance. Experimental results demonstrated that MFCs utilising cow manure with smaller electrodes (3 cm × 5 cm) exhibited superior performance, achieving an initial open‐circuit voltage of 0.495 V and stabilising at approximately 0.314 V after 120 h. The peak power density reached 5207 μW/m2, significantly outperforming the human waste MFCs. The enhanced performance is attributed to the effective substrate degradation and efficient electron transfer facilitated by the cow manure substrate and optimised electrode surface area. While a single MFC unit does not generate sufficient current to directly power standard soil moisture sensors, strategic improvements such as increasing electrode dimensions, optimising chamber volume, and incorporating energy storage and voltage boosting circuits can render the system practical. This work underscores the potential of MFC technology in addressing energy scarcity in rural agricultural regions, aligning with global efforts toward renewable energy adoption and sustainable waste management. Future advancements in MFC design and integration hold promise for broader applicability in precision agriculture and beyond.
Sunil. Umachagi, Mahantesh N Paruti, M. Vijayakumar
ECS Transactions · 2022
Pollution of water, waste disposal, and their management is big problem faced by the world today. Industrial waste, agricultural waste, and household waste are best substrates for energy generation. India is one of the leading producers of sugar and dairy products in the world. These industries discharge a bulk amount of wastewater per day without proper treatment during working seasons. Sugar and dairy industry wastewater has high COD and BOD, which is hazardous for aquatic life and human use also. MFC have earned importance in the last few decades due to its ability to generate bioelectricity from all renewable sources, Most of the MFCs have been used to treat different kinds of wastewater, such as sugar, dairy, brewery, domestic wastewater, distillery, rice mill, paper and pulp, swine wastewater, etc.
A. Nandy, Bong-Won Kim, M. di Lorenzo
E3S Web of Conferences · 2022
Increased human, agricultural and industrial activities along with improper waste disposal leads to high levels of soil contamination and accumulation of recalcitrant contaminants in the environment. This global issue demands the use of green and sustainable technologies and soil microbial fuel cells (SMFC) can be a potential solution. We adopted minimalistic designs, based on low-cost carbon materials without any expensive catalyst and membrane, which makes the SMFCs suitable for in-field applications. We investigated the ability of the indigenous microbial population of the soil to use organic contaminants as the source of carbon and the enrichment of the electroactive consortium was monitored over time onto the electrode surface of the SMFCs. We tested performance in soil contaminated with pesticide and soil contaminated with hydrocarbons and compare the microbial enrichment process with respect to the case of non-contaminated soil.
Rojas-Flores Segundo, Cabanillas-Chirinos Luis, Nélida Milly Otiniano et al.
World Congress on Civil, Structural, and Environmental Engineering · 2025
- Agricultural waste has increased rapidly in recent years due to increased food production, which has risen due to the increase in the world population. On the other hand, the high cost of energy consumption and scarcity of this sound in remote communities has caused the scientific community to look for new ways to sustain electricity. For this reason, the main objective of this research is to observe the potential of artichoke waste as fuel in single-chamber microbial fuel cells using carbon and zinc electrodes. An average maximum power density of 220.271 ± 11.174 mW/cm 2 was achieved in an average current density of 5.841 ± 0.285 A/cm 2 on the tenth day, with an average maximum voltage of 0.795 ± 0.025 V and an average maximum electric current of 1.980 ± 0.0.072 mA. These electric flies were obtained on the tenth day, where the microbial fuel cells operated at a pH of 4.351 ± 0.161 with an electrical conductivity of 127.844 ± 8.512 mS/cm and an electrical resistance of 40.314 ± 6.813 Ω. The single-chamber microbial fuel cells with artichoke waste were connected in series, producing a 2.35 V voltage necessary to light an LED light.
W. Rojas-Villacorta, S. Rojas-Flores, Santiago M. Benites et al.
Sustainability · 2023
Agricultural waste negatively impacts the environment and generates economic difficulties for agro-industrial companies and farmers. As a result, it is necessary for an eco-friendly and sustainable alternative to managing this type of waste. Therefore, the research aimed to investigate lettuce waste as an alternative substrate to generate bioelectricity in single-chamber microbial fuel cells (scMFCs). It was possible to report voltage and electric current peaks of 0.959 ± 0.026 V and 5.697 ± 0.065 mA on the fourteenth day, values that were attained with an optimum pH of 7.867 ± 0.147 and with an electrical conductivity of 118.964 ± 8.888 mS/cm. Moreover, as time passed the values began to decline slowly. The calculated value of maximum power density was 378.145 ± 5.417 mW/cm2 whose current density was 5.965 A/cm2, while the internal resistance reported using Ohm’s Law was 87.594 ± 6.226 Ω. Finally, it was possible to identify the Stenotrophomonas maltophilia bacterium (99.59%) on a molecular scale, as one of the microorganisms present in the anodic biofilm. The three microbial fuel cells were connected in series and demonstrated that they were capable of lighting an LED bulb, with a voltage of 2.18 V.
M. Zieliński, Łukasz Barczak, Paulina Rusanowska et al.
Energies · 2024
The development and implementation of innovative production technologies have a direct influence on the creation of new sources of pollution and types of waste. An example of this is the wastewater from soil-less agriculture and the effluent from microbial fuel cells. An important topic is the development and application of methods for their neutralisation that take into account the assumptions of global environmental policy. The aim of the present study was to determine the possibilities of utilising this type of pollution in the process of autotrophic cultivation of the biohydrogen-producing microalgae Tetraselmis subcordiformis. The highest biomass concentration of 3030 ± 183 mgVS/L and 67.9 ± 3.5 mg chl-a/L was observed when the culture medium was wastewater from soil-less agriculture. The growth rate in the logarithmic growth phase was 270 ± 16 mgVS/L-day and 5.95 ± 0.24 mg chl-a/L-day. In the same scenario, the highest total H2 production of 161 ± 8 mL was also achieved, with an observed H2 production rate of 4.67 ± 0.23 mL/h. Significantly lower effects in terms of biomass production of T. subcordiformis and H2 yield were observed when fermented dairy wastewater from the anode chamber of the microbial fuel cell was added to the culture medium.
Yushi Tian, Xiaoxue Mei, Qing Liang et al.
RSC Advances · 2017
The syntrophic interactions between polysaccharide-degrading bacteria and exoelectrogens drove simultaneous alternative energy production and degradation of potato pulp waste in microbial fuel cells.
Harshika Gupta, Smita Singh, Dr. Maj. Neerja Masih
Futuristic Trends in Biotechnology Volume 3 Book 21 · 2024
The demand for power is quite significant on a global scale. Microbial Fuel Cell (MFC) Technology may be used to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and to provide alternative sustainable energy sources. MFC Technology uses microorganisms to produce power using the organic matter found in the environment. MFC is a biofuel cell, that generates electricity by converting organic material into electricity. Due to its ability to use wastewater as a substrate and to not require a metal catalyst, it can be taken into consideration as a more sustainable alternative for traditional fuel cells. Waste material are first transformed to chemical energy and then, after being treated to the desired level to electrical energy. An anode, cathode and a separation membrane are the basic components of MFC. MFC technology has the potential to become a more environment friendly fuel cell alternative. Despite being viewed as a promising technology, MFC is not yet commercially viable for usage on a large scale due to its poor current generation per unit cost and high internal resistance. More study should be conducted on the creation of more efficient electrode materials and the development of resilient microorganisms as biocatalysts in order to boost the viability of MFC technology.
Soumya Pandit, Nishit Savla, Jayesh M. Sonawane et al.
Fermentation · 2021
In recent years, there has been a significant accumulation of waste in the environment, and it is expected that this accumulation may increase in the years to come. Waste disposal has massive effects on the environment and can cause serious environmental problems. Thus, the development of a waste treatment system is of major importance. Agro-industrial wastewater and waste residues are mainly rich in organic substances, lignocellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, and they have a relatively high amount of energy. As a result, an effective agro-waste treatment system has several benefits, including energy recovery and waste stabilization. To reduce the impact of the consumption of fossil energy sources on our planet, the exploitation of renewable sources has been relaunched. All over the world, efforts have been made to recover energy from agricultural waste, considering global energy security as the final goal. To attain this objective, several technologies and recovery methods have been developed in recent years. The microbial fuel cell (MFC) is one of them. This review describes the power generation using various types of agro-industrial wastewaters and agricultural residues utilizing MFC. It also highlights the techno-economics and lifecycle assessment of MFC, its commercialization, along with challenges.
Vincenzo Patamia, Chiara Zagni, Roberto Fiorenza et al.
Nanomaterials · 2023
Bacterial involvement in cancer’s development, along with their impact on therapeutic interventions, has been increasingly recognized. This has prompted the development of novel strategies to disrupt essential biological processes in microbial cells. Among these approaches, metal-chelating agents have gained attention for their ability to hinder microbial metal metabolism and impede critical reactions. Nanotechnology has also contributed to the antibacterial field by offering various nanomaterials, including antimicrobial nanoparticles with potential therapeutic and drug-delivery applications. Halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) are naturally occurring tubular clay nanomaterials composed of aluminosilicate kaolin sheets rolled multiple times. The aluminum and siloxane groups on the surface of HNTs enable hydrogen bonding with biomaterials, making them versatile in various domains, such as environmental sciences, wastewater treatment, nanoelectronics, catalytic studies, and cosmetics. This study aimed to create an antibacterial material by combining the unique properties of halloysite nanotubes with the iron-chelating capability of kojic acid. A nucleophilic substitution reaction involving the hydroxyl groups on the nanotubes’ surface was employed to functionalize the material using kojic acid. The resulting material was characterized using infrared spectroscopy (IR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and its iron-chelating ability was assessed. Furthermore, the potential for drug loading—specifically, with resveratrol and curcumin—was evaluated through ultraviolet (UV) analysis. The antibacterial assay was evaluated following CLSI guidelines. The results suggested that the HNTs–kojic acid formulation had great antibacterial activity against all tested pathogens. The outcome of this work yielded a novel bio-based material with dual functionality as a drug carrier and an antimicrobial agent. This innovative approach holds promise for addressing challenges related to bacterial infections, antibiotic resistance, and the development of advanced therapeutic interventions.
Mehrnaz Fayazi, Mitra Rostami, Masoud Amiri Moghaddam et al.
Journal of Drug Targeting · 2024
Abstract Periodontitis (PD) is a chronic gum illness that may be hard to cure for a number of reasons, including the fact that no one knows what causes it, the side effects of anti-microbial treatment, and how various kinds of bacteria interact with one another. As a result, novel therapeutic approaches for PD treatment must be developed. Additionally, supplementary antibacterial regimens, including local and systemic medication administration of chemical agents, are necessary for deep pockets to assist with mechanical debridement of tooth surfaces. As our knowledge of periodontal disease and drug delivery systems (DDSs) grows, new targeted delivery systems like extracellular vesicles, lipid-based nanoparticles (NPs), metallic NPs, and polymer NPs have been developed. These systems aim to improve the targeting and precision of PD treatments while reducing the systemic side effects of antibiotics. Nanozymes, photodermal therapy, antibacterial metallic NPs, and traditional PD therapies have all been reviewed in this research. Medicinal herbs, antibiotics, photothermal therapy, nanozymes, antibacterial metallic NPs, and conventional therapies for PD have all been examined in this research. After that, we reviewed the key features of many innovative DDSs and how they worked for PD therapy. Finally, we have discussed the advantages and disadvantages of these DDSs. Graphical Abstract
Leyi Xiao, Mengge Feng, Chen Chen et al.
Advanced Materials · 2023
The oral cavity comprises an environment full of microorganisms. Dysregulation of this microbial-cellular microenvironment will lead to a series of oral diseases, such as implant-associated infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) biofilms and periodontitis initiated by Streptococcus oralis (S. oralis). In this study, a liposome-encapsulated indocyanine green (ICG) and rapamycin drug-delivery nanoparticle (ICG-rapamycin) is designed to treat and prevent two typical biofilm-induced oral diseases by regulating the microbial-cellular microenvironment. ICG-rapamycin elevates the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and temperature levels to facilitate photodynamic and photothermal mechanisms under near-infrared (NIR) laser irradiation for anti-bacteria. In addition, it prevents biofilm formation by promoting bacterial motility with increasing the ATP levels. The nanoparticles modulate the microbial-cellular interaction to reduce cellular inflammation and enhance bacterial clearance, which includes promoting the M2 polarization of macrophages, upregulating the anti-inflammatory factor TGF-β, and enhancing the bacterial phagocytosis of macrophages. Based on these findings, ICG-rapamycin is applied to implant-infected and periodontitis animal models to confirm the effects in vivo. This study demonstrates that ICG-rapamycin can treat and prevent biofilm-induced oral diseases by regulating the microbial-cellular microenvironment, thus providing a promising strategy for future clinical applications.
Jian Gao, Jiannan Li, Zengyou Luo et al.
Drug Design, Development and Therapy · 2024
Abstract Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic, non-specific inflammatory condition characterized by recurring inflammation of the intestinal mucosa. However, the existing IBD treatments are ineffective and have serious side effects. The etiology of IBD is multifactorial and encompasses immune, genetic, environmental, dietary, and microbial factors. The nanoparticles (NPs) developed based on specific targeting methodologies exhibit great potential as nanotechnology advances. Nanoparticles are defined as particles between 1 and 100 nm in size. Depending on their size and surface functionality, NPs exhibit different properties. A variety of nanoparticle types have been employed as drug carriers for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), with encouraging outcomes observed in experimental models. They increase the bioavailability of drugs and enable targeted drug delivery, promoting localized treatment and thus enhancing efficacy. Nevertheless, numerous challenges persist in the translation from nanomedicine to clinical application, including enhanced formulations and preparation techniques, enhanced drug safety profiles, and so forth. In the future, it will be necessary for scientists and clinicians to collaborate in order to study disease mechanisms, develop new drug delivery strategies, and screen new nanomedicines. Nevertheless, numerous challenges persist in the translation from nanomedicine to clinical application, including enhanced formulations and preparation techniques, enhanced drug safety profiles, and so forth. In the future, it will be necessary for scientists and clinicians to collaborate in order to study disease mechanisms, develop new drug delivery strategies, and screen new nanomedicines.
Rokeya Sultana, Sourav Mohanto, Adrija Bhunia et al.
Current Drug Delivery · 2024
The utilization of novel drug delivery systems loaded with essential oils has gained significant attention as a promising approach for biomedical applications in recent years. Plants possess essential oils that exhibit various medicinal properties, i.e., anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, anti- inflammatory, anti-cancer, immunomodulatory, etc., due to the presence of various phytoconstituents, including terpenes, phenols, aldehydes, ketones, alcohols, and esters. An understanding of conventional and advanced extraction techniques of Essential Oils (EOs) from several plant sources is further required before considering or loading EOs into drug delivery systems. Therefore, this article summarizes the various extraction techniques of EOs and their existing limitations. The in-built biological applications of EOs are of prerequisite importance for treating several diseases. Thus, the mechanisms of action of EOs for anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial activities, etc., have been further explored in this article. The encapsulation of essential oils in micro or nanometric systems is an intriguing technique to render adequate stability to the thermosensitive compounds and shield them against environmental factors that might cause chemical degradation. Thus, the article further summarizes the advanced drug delivery approaches loaded with EOs and current challenges in the future outlook of EOs for biomedical applications.
S. Gulati, Nabeela Ansari, Yamini Moriya et al.
Journal of Materials Chemistry B · 2024
Nanobiopolymers have emerged as a transformative frontier in cancer treatment, leveraging nanotechnology to transform drug delivery. This review provides a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted landscape of nano-based biopolymers, emphasizing their diverse sources, synthesis methods, and classifications. Natural, synthetic, and microbial nanobiopolymers are scrutinized, along with elucidation of their underlying mechanisms and impact on cancer drug delivery; the latest findings on their deployment as targeted drug delivery agents for cancer treatment are discussed. A detailed analysis of nanobiopolymer sources, including polysaccharides, peptides, and nucleic acids, highlights critical attributes like biodegradability, renewability, and sustainability essential for therapeutic applications. The classification of nanobiopolymers based on their origin and differentiation among natural, synthetic, and microbial sources are thoroughly examined for inherent advantages, challenges, and suitability for cancer therapeutics. The importance of targeted drug release at tumour sites, crucial for minimizing adverse effects on normal tissues, is discussed, encompassing various mechanisms. The role of polymer membrane coatings as a pivotal barrier for facilitating controlled drug release through diffusion is elucidated, providing further insight into efficient methods for cancer treatment and thus consolidating the current knowledge base for researchers and practitioners in the field of nanobiopolymers and cancer therapeutics.
Mehdi Yoosefian, Hanieh Sabaghian
Journal of Drug Targeting · 2024
Abstract Nanoparticles (NPs) have played a pivotal role in various biomedical applications, spanning from sensing to drug delivery, imaging and anti-viral therapy. The therapeutic utilisation of NPs in clinical trials was established in the early 1990s. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) possess anti-microbial, anti-cancer and anti-viral properties, which make them a possible anti-viral drug to combat the COVID-19 virus. Free radicals and reactive oxygen species are produced by AgNPs, which causes apoptosis induction and prevents viral contamination. The shape and size of AgNPs can influence their interactions and biological activities. Therefore, it is recommended that silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) be used as a valuable tool in the management of COVID-19 pandemic. These nanoparticles possess strong anti-microbial properties, allowing them to penetrate and destroy microbial cells. Additionally, the toxicity level of nanoparticles depends on the administered dose, and surface modifications are necessary to reduce toxicity, preventing direct interaction between metal surfaces and cells. By utilising silver nanoparticles, drugs can be targeted to specific areas in the body. For example, in the case of COVID-19, anti-viral drugs can be stimulated as nanoparticles in the lungs to accelerate disease recovery. Nanoparticle-based systems have the capability to transport drugs and treat specific body parts. This review offers an examination of silver nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems for combatting COVID-19, with the objective of boosting the bioavailability of existing medications, decreasing their toxicity and raising their efficiency.
Miguel Jimenez, R. Langer, G. Traverso
Journal of Experimental Medicine · 2019
With >40 clinical trials underway, we are nearing the first FDA-approved live microbial therapeutic. Here, Giovanni Traverso, MIT and Harvard Medical School Assistant Professor, and colleagues Miguel Jimenez and Institute Professor Robert Langer from MIT discuss the significant challenges of administering live microorganisms to patients and the opportunities for drug delivery of these new complex therapeutics.
Matheus Aparecido dos Santos Ramos, P. D. da Silva, L. Spósito et al.
International Journal of Nanomedicine · 2018
Since the dawn of civilization, it has been understood that pathogenic microorganisms cause infectious conditions in humans, which at times, may prove fatal. Among the different virulent properties of microorganisms is their ability to form biofilms, which has been directly related to the development of chronic infections with increased disease severity. A problem in the elimination of such complex structures (biofilms) is resistance to the drugs that are currently used in clinical practice, and therefore, it becomes imperative to search for new compounds that have anti-biofilm activity. In this context, nanotechnology provides secure platforms for targeted delivery of drugs to treat numerous microbial infections that are caused by biofilms. Among the many applications of such nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems is their ability to enhance the bioactive potential of therapeutic agents. The present study reports the use of important nanoparticles, such as liposomes, microemulsions, cyclodextrins, solid lipid nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, and metallic nanoparticles, in controlling microbial biofilms by targeted drug delivery. Such utilization of these nanosystems has led to a better understanding of their applications and their role in combating biofilms.
Manisha Pandey, H. Choudhury, A. Abdul-Aziz et al.
Polymers · 2020
An optimal host–microbiota interaction in the human vagina governs the reproductive health status of a woman. The marked depletion in the beneficial Lactobacillus sp. increases the risk of infection with sexually transmitted pathogens, resulting in gynaecological issues. Vaginal infections that are becoming increasingly prevalent, especially among women of reproductive age, require an effective concentration of antimicrobial drugs at the infectious sites for complete disease eradication. Thus, topical treatment is recommended as it allows direct therapeutic action, reduced drug doses and side effects, and self-insertion. However, the alterations in the physiological conditions of the vagina affect the effectiveness of vaginal drug delivery considerably. Conventional vaginal dosage forms are often linked to low retention time in the vagina and discomfort which significantly reduces patient compliance. The lack of optimal prevention and treatment approaches have contributed to the unacceptably high rate of recurrence for vaginal diseases. To combat these limitations, several novel approaches including nano-systems, mucoadhesive polymeric systems, and stimuli-responsive systems have been developed in recent years. This review discusses and summarises the recent research progress of these novel approaches for vaginal drug delivery against various vaginal diseases. An overview of the concept and challenges of vaginal infections, anatomy and physiology of the vagina, and barriers to vaginal drug delivery are also addressed.
A. Zaki, El-Sayed R. El-Sayed, M. Abd Elkodous et al.
Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology · 2020
Abstract Neurodegenerative disorders especially Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are significantly threatening the public health. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors are compounds of great interest which can be used as effective agents for the symptomatic treatment of AD. Although plants are considered the largest source for these types of inhibitors, the microbial production of AChE inhibitors represents an efficient, easily manipulated, eco-friendly, cost-effective, and alternative approach. This review highlights the recent advances on the microbial production of AChE inhibitors and summarizes all the previously reported successful studies on isolation, screening, extraction, and detecting methodologies of AChE inhibitors from the microbial fermentation, from the earliest trials to the most promising anti-AD drug, huperzine A (HupA). In addition, improvement strategies for maximizing the industrial production of AChE inhibitors by microbes will be discussed. Finally, the promising applications of nano-material-based drug delivery systems for natural AChE inhibitor (HupA) will also be summarized. Key Points • AChE inhibitors are potential therapies for Alzheimer’s disease. • Microorganisms as alternate sources for prospective production of such inhibitors. • Research advances on extraction, detection, and strategies for production improvement. • Nanotechnology-based approaches for an effective drug delivery for Alzheimer’s disease .
M. Ohadi, A. Shahravan, Negar Dehghannoudeh et al.
Drug Design, Development and Therapy · 2020
Background Microemulsions drug delivery systems (MDDS) have been known to increase the bioavailability of hydrophobic drugs. The main challenge of the MDDS is the development of an effective and safe system for drug carriage and delivery. Biosurfactants are preferred surface-active molecules because of their lower toxicity and safe characteristics when compared to synthetic surfactants. Glycolipid and lipopeptide are the most common biosurfactants that were tested for MDDS. The main goal of the present systematic review was to estimate the available evidence on the role of biosurfactant in the development of MDDS. Search Strategy Literature searches involved the main scientific databases and were focused on the period from 2005 until 2017. The Search filter composed of two items: “Biosurfactant” and/or “Microemulsion.” Inclusion Criteria Twenty-four studies evaluating the use of biosurfactant in MDDS were eligible for inclusion. Among these 14 were related to the use of glycolipid biosurfactants in the MDDS formulations, while four reported using lipopeptide biosurfactants and six other related review articles. Results According to the output study parameters, biosurfactants acted as active stabilizers, hydrophilic or hydrophobic linkers and safety carriers in MDDS, and among them glycolipid biosurfactants had the most application in MDDS formulations. Conclusion Synthetic surfactants could be replaced by biosurfactants as an effective bio-source for MDDS due to their excellent self-assembling and emulsifying activity properties.