Discover insights from thousands of peer-reviewed papers on microbial electrochemical systems
Jingrong Yu, Ping Cheng, Zhiqi Ma et al.
1st International Fuel Cell Science, Engineering and Technology Conference · 2002
The fabrication of miniature silicon wafer fuel cells by micro-fabrication technologies and their performance evaluation are presented in this paper. Various thickness of Nafion membranes, such as Nafion 117, 115, and 112, were tested as electrolytes in a miniature single cell operating with dry H2/O2. Among these membranes, Nafion 112 (with the thinnest thickness) gave the best performance of 92.2 mW/cm2 at 250mA/cm2. In order to enhance the output voltage of the fuel cell, a miniature twin-fuel-cell was fabricated in series using two membrane-electrode-assemblies of Nafion 112 membrane sandwiched between two silicon substrates. The novel structure of the miniature twin-fuel-cell is that the electricity interconnect from the cathode of one cell to the anode of another cell is made on the same plane. The interconnect is fabricated by sputtering a layer of gold on the top of the silicon wafer. Silicon dioxide is deposited on the silicon wafer adjacent to the gold layer to prevent short-circuiting between the twin-cells. At ambient conditions, the measured peak power densities of the miniature twin-fuel-cell operating with H2/O2 and 1.5M methanol/O2, are 190.4mW/cm2 and 15.4mW/cm2, respectively.
T. A. Greszler, T. E. Moylan, H. A. Gasteiger
Handbook of Fuel Cells · 2010
Abstract Starting from fundamental principles, we have developed an isothermal, one‐dimensional model for cation contamination of a proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell. When current is drawn, the foreign cations migrate toward the cathode under the influence of the potential gradient while diffusion acts to balance this migration. The model provides the electrolyte potential along with the concentration of water, cation, and proton across the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) at steady‐state condition. The voltage loss associated with cation contamination is largely thermodynamic in nature owing to the proton concentration (pH) difference that develops between the anode and cathode. This potential loss is proportional to current density and inversely proportional to water content. If the cation fraction in the cathode approaches unity, the cell current becomes limited because of proton starvation. The model is validated with experimental hydrogen pump performance data using lithium‐doped MEAs. Hydrogen/oxygen operation is presented experimentally and discussed, but not explicitly modeled because of the added complications introduced by the sluggish oxygen reduction reaction kinetics. Experimental data for cobalt‐doped MEAs, which can react in the cathode when the local pH increases above five, is presented and explained with the aid of cobalt's Pourbaix diagram. Finally, the effect of cobalt ion contamination (e.g., from PtCo cathode catalysts degradation) on H 2 /air PEMFC performance under automotive conditions is shown.
C. Fink, S. Gößling, L. Karpenko‐Jereb et al.
Fuel Cells · 2020
Abstract The polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell model of a commercial software package is presented. The basic performance model is extended by two chemical degradation effects: ionomer degradation and carbon corrosion including platinum oxidation. The ionomer degradation model describes the ionomer mass loss due to hydrogen peroxide formation and subsequent attack of the ionomer by radicals. The carbon corrosion model calculates the carbon mass loss caused by carbon oxidation and the active area reduction due to platinum oxidation. The degradation models are coupled with an agglomerate model of the catalyst layer. The model is validated against measurements on an industrial cell. For these measurements, the cell is equipped with a segmented measuring board, which is used to measure the current density distribution and high frequency resistance of every segment. In order to test the predictability of the model under different operating conditions, measurements for stoichiometry and pressure variations are carried out. Calculated and measured current density distributions of the cell, aged by an accelerated stress test, are compared for the validation of the degradation model. Moreover, 3D simulation results of the fresh and aged cells are analyzed in detail and the influence of operating conditions on fuel cell aging is pointed out.
Yu Yang, Hen-Geul Yeh, Bryan Aguirre
· 2025
As California advances its ambitious goals for transportation electrification to combat climate change, hydrogen-powered fuel cells are emerging as a viable solution for overcoming the challenges of heavy-duty vehicles, offering an efficient alternative to lithium-ion batteries because they produce minimal chemical, thermal, and carbon emissions. One type of hydrogen fuel cell technology called proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) has garnered the most attention due to its distinct advantages, including relatively low operating temperatures (60–80 °C) and reliable performance at high current densities. However, despite their promise, PEMFCs face challenges, including in optimizing stack power output and safety concerns. To tackle these issues, accurate modeling and control strategies are essential. This study focuses on using data-driven modeling (specifically using a process known as “closed-loop system identification” under proportional controller and pseudo-random binary sequence excitation methods) to better understand and manage PEMFC systems. Various transfer functions models were analyzed, including first-order, first-order plus time delay, second-order, and second-order plus time delay models. The resulting closed-loop identification approach was applied on the humidifier, cooling, and oxygen supplier subsystems of simulated PEMFC to build their models under controlled operations. The results of this study highlight the potential of closed-loop system identification techniques to improve fuel cell vehicle performance in power supply, water, and heat management, without interrupting PEMFC operations. These findings demonstrate the significance of precise modeling as a cornerstone for advancing PEMFC control strategies and optimizing their application in renewable transportation and a more sustainable future.
Pitch Sakwong
· 2008
This work aimed to study the effects of modified Montmorillonite clay (m-MMT) loading on the mechanical and thermal properties of the Nafion®/m-MMT composite membrane prepared by solution mixing method. Nafion® perfluorinated resin (5 wt% in lower aliphatic alcohol and water) was mixed with m-MMT (Bentone SD®1) at 0, 3, 6, and 10 phr. The structures of the composite membranes were studied by XRD. Their performances were determined in terms of water uptake, ion exchange capacity (IEC), thermal and mechanical properties. The XRD results showed that the interlayer spacing of m-MMT was decreased when incorporated into Nafion® matrix. Hence, the Nafion® matrix did not intercalate into interlayer spacing of m-MMT and the composite obtained was of a conventional composite type. The water uptake of Nafion®/m-MMT composite membrane increased with increasing amount of m-MMT in Nafion® matrix but the IEC values of Nafion®/m-MMT composite membranes decreased. These effects would balance each other out and the proton conductivity of Nafion®/m-MMT composite membranes would not differ from the pristine Nafion® membrane. The elastic moduli of soaked Nafion®/m-MMT composite membranes were about equal to the soaked pristine Nafion® membrane but the elongation at break of the soaked Nafion®/m-MMT composite membranes were lower. Therefore, the incorporation of this m-MMT into Nafion® matrix at least helped reduce the decay of these mechanical properties by counteracting the effects of increasing water uptake in the composite membranes.
Abu Danish Aiman Bin Abu Sofian, Vincent Lee, Henry Marn Jhun Leong et al.
Food Technology and Biotechnology · 2025
Research background. The increasing environmental concerns due to fossil fuel consumption and industrial wastewater pollution necessitate sustainable solutions for bioenergy production and wastewater treatment. Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME), a high-strength industrial wastewater, poses significant environmental challenges. Microbial Electrolysis Cells (MEC) and Microbial Fuel Cells (MFC) offer promising avenues for bioenergy recovery from such wastewaters. Experimental approach. Dual-chamber H-type reactors equipped with proton exchange membranes were employed to separately assess MEC and MFC performance in bioenergy production from POME. Hydrogen generation and COD removal in MECs were evaluated at varying applied voltages and influent COD concentrations, while the impact of external resistance on power output and COD reduction was investigated in MFCs. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used to optimise these operational parameters for maximal bioenergy recovery and efficient wastewater treatment. Results and conclusions. The findings revealed that hydrogen production and COD removal efficiency in MECs were maximised at low influent COD levels and low voltage supply. The MEC demonstrated effective hydrogen production and wastewater treatment, while the MFC achieved significant electricity generation and COD reduction. Field emission scanning electron microscopy confirmed the formation of biofilms on the electrodes, indicating active microbial communities involved in bioenergy generation. A trade-off between power density and COD removal efficiency in MFCs was observed, with medium resistance levels yielding maximum power output. The integration of MEC and MFC showed potential for treating high-strength industrial wastewater like POME, offering a greener and more energy-efficient approach. Novelty and scientific contribution. This study demonstrates the potential feasibility of integrating MEC and MFC technologies for simultaneous bioenergy production and wastewater treatment from POME. It advances knowledge in biochemical engineering by optimising operational conditions for enhanced bioenergy recovery and highlights the role of microbial communities in bioelectrochemical systems. The findings provide a foundation for future research on sustainable bioenergy production and contribute to environmental sustainability efforts.
A.L. Vázquez-Larios, O. Solorza-Feria, R. de G. González-Huerta et al.
Journal of New Materials for Electrochemical Systems · 2013
The objectives of this work were to evaluate (i) the application of a bimetallic chalcogenide, RuxMoySez, as an oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalyst and (ii) the effect of the type of two anodic materials on the performance of two microbial fuel cells (MFCs). A single chamber MFC-T was built with a plexiglass cylinder, the two extreme circular faces were fitted with PEM-cathode assemblage, i.e., left and right faces. The anode consisted of 65 small triangular pieces of graphite filling the anodic chamber. A second MFC-C had a ‘sandwich’ arrangement anode-PEM-cathode. The cathodes were made of ?exible carbon-cloth containing catalysts loading of 1mg/cm2 RuxMoySez or 0.5mg/cm2 Pt. Power derived by cell T with cathode chalcogenide catalyst was 43% inferior to that of a similar cell with Pt although the cost of the first catalyst is significantly lower than that of Pt, i.e., 73% lower. Finally, application of graphite anode made of small triangular pieces significantly improved the performance of a MFC-T that used RuxMoySez as a cathodic catalyst for ORR.
Sabrina Marie Schuler
· 2021
Within the sagebrush steppe, fire has been shown to affect biogeochemical properties and the microbial community composition in soils. However, there is uncertainty about the magnitude and direction of these effects, since they vary by sites that differ in abiotic and biotic conditions. Moreover, differences in post-fire management strategies are likely to mediate the effect of fire on soil properties, thus further compounding this uncertainty. Any changes in soil biogeochemical properties following fire can prevent successful restoration of Artemisia tridentata sp. wyomingensis (sagebrush), leading to variable outcomes of restoration success in the sagebrush steppe. Previous research has shown that addition of native soil microbes and biochar can improve ecosystem restoration efforts, but the effects of these soil amendments on post-fire soil properties and sagebrush performance across sites are uncertain. With this study, I investigated how fire impacts soil properties (i.e., soil organic matter (SOM), soil structure, carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) concentrations, soil pH, net mineral N, microbial richness and composition) at a variety of sites that differ in time since exposure to fire, post-fire plant communities, and post-fire site management. I then implemented a greenhouse study to evaluate how amending soils with native microbial community inocula and biochar impact soil properties of the post-burn sites and sagebrush germination and growth. Taken together, these findings capture the influences of multiple fires and separate management strategies on soil properties, and how certain soil amendments may redirect soil recovery to aid in sagebrush restoration. In my first chapter, I asked two questions: (1) how does fire affect soil biochemical properties across sites that differ in fire history, post-fire plant communities, and post-fire site management, and (2) how does fire affect soil microbial richness and community composition across sites that differ in post-fire plant communities, and post-fire site management. To assess these questions, soils were collected from three south of Boise, Idaho within the Orchard Combat Training Center (OCTC) that contrasted in fire history, plant community, and post-fire management. The northern part of the Union Fire (180 acres; hereafter: UFN2011) burned in 2011, and was treated with a mix of imazapic and glyphosate during the spring of 2019, after which sagebrush was handplanted 8 months later that yea. The southern part of the Union Fire (160 acres; hereafter: UFS2011) burned in 2011 and seeded with native grass species and planted with sagebrush. The Christmas Fire (hereafter: CF2018) burned in 2018, and was subjected to the same seeding and handplanting treatments as UFS2011. At each site, I selected five locations within the perimeter of the burn, and five locations outside the burn, representing the unburned control plots. In these unburned control plots, the five locations were stratified by sagebrush canopy and interspace microsites separately. At each one of the five locations, I collected four soil cores (10cm depth, 2.5cm diameter). I evaluated differences in soil pH, soil organic matter (SOM), soil carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) contents, soil structure, N cycling, and soil microbial communities between burned and unburned sites. Fire reduced SOM and soil C contents, and these losses were greater in burned areas that received an herbicide treatment. This suggests that suppression of plant growth using herbicides may limit the recovery of soil properties that are foundational to sagebrush steppe ecosystem functioning. Furthermore, I found a loss of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) richness with fire and significant changes in soil microbial community structure when herbicide had been used. Finally, increased soil mineral N concentrations across all burned sites indicate that fire may significantly reduce ecosystem stability and increase the risk of invasion. These changes in soil properties are likely to lead to a persistent ecosystem state-changes in the sagebrush steppe, and future studies should evaluate which management approaches could be used to restore both soils and plant communities. In my second chapter, I investigated two management approaches that may be used to restore the soils and plant communities impacted by fire. I asked (1) How does a live native soil microbial inoculum impact sagebrush performance and soil properties, (2) how do biochar additions impact sagebrush performance and soil properties, and (3) how does prior management (e.g., herbicide) mediate the impact of soil microbial inoculation and biochar amendment on sagebrush performance? A full factorial greenhouse experiment was conducted for three months with soils collected from the three post-burn sites described in Chapter 1. In the greenhouse experiment I incorporated the following treatments: (1) sterile native inoculum [-Inoculum] and no biochar [-Biochar], (2) live native inoculum [+Inoculum] and no biochar [-Biochar], (3) sterile native inoculum [-Inoculum] and biochar [+Biochar], and (4) live native inoculum [+Inoculum] and biochar [+Biochar]. Inocula was derived from sagebrush canopies at unburned sites and either added as live native inocula or autoclaved to sterilize the microbial community. Biochar was crushed into planted, watered daily until cotyledons showed, and continually monitored throughout the growing period. Germination, soil moisture content and pH, above- and below-ground measurements, total mineral N, fungal root colonization proportional abundances, and microbial richness and composition were assessed. I found that inoculations did not significantly benefit sagebrush performance, most likely due to the ratio of inocula administered. In contrast, biochar consistently enhanced soil moisture, pH, sagebrush germination and other performance variables while its effects on total mineral N and fungal root colonization varied by site location. Lastly, presence of herbicide in post-burn soils significantly altered soil bacterial and fungal community composition, and its effects persisted enough to inhibit sagebrush performance. Together, my data show that addition of biochar has a greater positive impact on sagebrush germination and performance than addition of soil microbial inocula, and that herbicide addition has persistent negative impacts on sagebrush performance. My study captured the varying levels at which fire impacts ecosystem structure and function, and how different soil amendments affected sagebrush performance at these post-fire soils. My findings support the notion that soil properties will remain degraded without appropriate management strategies supporting restoration, and herbicide may actually suppress successful restoration, residing longer in the soil than previously documented. When growing sagebrush in post-burn soils within the greenhouse, biochar enabled soil recovery, and this benefited sagebrush performance. However, herbicide impacts persisted and decreased sagebrush biomass even when soil amendments were incorporated. Fire can have profound, yet vastly different, influences on soil properties, and soil amendments may be able to augment soil recovery. Future studies should investigate various soil amendments and their impacts on sagebrush performance in the midst of changing fire regimes, post-fire vegetation shifts, and current post-fire management.
Da Liu, Ruiwen Wang, Wen Chang et al.
Journal of Materials Chemistry A · 2017
Ti 3 C 2 MXene as the MFC anode facilitates bacterial adhesion and extracellular electron transfer, thus resulting in a power density of 3.74 W m −2 .
Hamed Dashtaki, Davood Ghadiri Moghaddam, Mohammad Jafar Kermani et al.
ASME 2010 8th International Fuel Cell Science, Engineering and Technology Conference: Volume 1 · 2009
In this paper, a simplified model partial pressure of Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) is introduced. A Multi-Input–Multi-Output (MIMO) dynamic model with two inputs and two outputs is considered, where the inputs are control variable of anode and cathode, and the outputs are partial pressures of hydrogen and oxygen. Initially, the H∞ robust control strategies were applied to stabilize the system. The results show that the amplitude of alternative disturbances is decreased from 10 atm to 0.25 atm. Also, the pressure of each electrode tracks various input pressure profiles with negligible steady-state errors. On the other hand, the electrode pressure does not depend on the variations of constrained electrical current profiles by consumer in the PEM fuel cells. According to unsuitable percent overshoot (P.O.) and settling time of transient model response, system identification techniques are adopted to estimate the system’s transfer functions. After that a PID controller acting as a supervisory controller is properly developed to adjust the transient state behavior of the overall system. This makes the amplitude of alternative disturbances decrease from 10 atm to 0.003 atm. With this controller, the percent overshoot also decreases from 46% to 2% and the settling time (for 2% error) decreases from 0.26 to 0.03 seconds.
Jiyeon Kim, Hongsuck Kim, Byunggoon Kim et al.
Water Science and Technology · 2014
A key criterion in microbial fuel cell (MFC) design is that the bio-electrochemical reaction between bacteria and the bulk solution should occur evenly on the electrode surface in order to improve electricity generation. However, experimental optimization of MFC design over a wide range of conditions is limited. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) technology makes it possible to evaluate physicochemical phenomena such as fluid flows, mass transfer and chemical reaction, which can assist in system optimization. Twelve MFCs (M1–M12) with different internal structures were subjected to CFD analysis. The dead (DS) and working spaces (WS) of the anode compartment were calculated. The flow patterns of the anodic fluid varied according to the internal structures. The WS where the bio-electrochemical reaction can actually occur varied over the range of 0.14–0.57 m2. Based on the above results, the power densities were estimated under the assumption that a monolayer biofilm was formed on the electrode. M11, with 18 rectangular-type internal structures, showed the largest WS of 0.57 m2 and a theoretical maximum power density of 0.54 W/m2. Although the optimization of the MFC configuration with only CFD analysis remains limited, the present study results are expected to provide fundamental data for MFC optimization.
Wei Yang, Jun Li, Linghan Lan et al.
ChemCatChem · 2019
Abstract As a renewable energy technology, microbial fuel cell (MFC) has been attracting increasing attention in recent decades. However, practical applications of MFCs has been hampered by the unsatisfactory electrode performance, in particular, at the cathode. Herein, Fe/N/S‐doped carbon hollow tubes were prepared by a facile two‐stage procedure involving hydrothermal treatment and pyrolysis at controlled temperatures. Electrochemical studies showed that the obtained samples exhibited an apparent electrocatalytic activity towards oxygen reduction reaction in both alkaline and acidic media, a performance comparable to that of commercial Pt/C, and the sample prepared at 800 °C stood out as the best among the series with a half‐wave potential of +0.81 V vs. RHE and an electron transfer number of 3.98 at +0.6 V vs. RHE. The Fe/N/S‐doped carbon tubes also exhibited a remarkable performance as an MFC anode by facilitating bacterial growth and electron transfer between the biofilm and electrode. In fact, an MFC based on the carbon tubes as both cathode and anode showed a markedly higher performance (maximum power density 479 W m −3 ) than the control MFC based on a graphene aerogel anode and Pt/C cathode (359 W m −3 ). These results suggest that Fe/N/S‐doped carbon composites can be used for the fabrication of high‐efficiency MFC electrodes.
Huidong Li, Lu Zhang, Ruiwen Wang et al.
EcoMat · 2022
Abstract Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) that can directly convert chemical energy of organic matter into electrical energy are expected to continuously obtain energy from wastewater. However, the practical application of MFCs is still limited by unsatisfactorily low power output due to low bacterial loading capacity and relatively poor extracellular electron transport (EET) efficiency between anode and electrochemically active biofilm. Herein, hierarchical porous carbon foams (HPCFs) prepared by pyrolyzing nanoscale Fe‐MIL‐88B‐NH 2 modified seitan composite were developed as 3D free‐standing MFC anodes. Its marcoporous structure and good biocompatibility favor the bacterial adhesion, while the N‐doped carbon skeleton, abundant mesopores and iron ions boost the bacteria‐electrode charge transfer efficiency. As a result, the HPCF anodes equipped MFCs deliver a maximum power density of 11.21 W m −3 and a current density of 23.11 A m −3 , outperforming the most previously reported 3D porous anodes. This study provides a new idea for the design of anodes for high‐performance MFCs. image
Ziwei Zhong, Lingkai Zhu, Wei Zheng et al.
E3S Web of Conferences · 2021
With the establishment of the goal of “carbon peaking and carbon neutralization”, a new power system based on new energy is proposed. With the rapid development of ultra-high voltage external power and new energy in Shandong power grid, the difficulty of system peak regulation is increasing. At present, the peak regulation is mainly based on direct regulating thermal power units. The capacity of pumped storage power stations is limited and there are no gas-fired generating units, which also leads to serious shortage of other flexible regulation resources that Shandong power grid can call. In 2022, Shandong Province plans to implement the renewable energy multiplication plan, and it is expected that the installed capacity of new energy will account for 38%. With the large-scale access of new energy, the “double high” characteristics of the power system are highlighted, and the technical characteristics and stability mechanism of the power grid will undergo profound changes. In the new power system with new energy as the main body, the role of thermal power generation has gradually changed from the electric power source to the regulating power source. Under the variable load conditions, find the optimal efficiency conditions and provide necessary data for the optimal denitration efficiency operation.
Antonio Martín-Alcántara, Laura González-Morán, Javier Pino et al.
Processes · 2022
The influence of the different properties of the gas diffusion layer (GDL) on the operation of a liquid-cooled, proton-exchange polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEMFC) has been studied in this work. Three-dimensional numerical simulations (CFD) have been conducted to compare several commercial GDLs with different properties, analyzing their influence on the cell performance. Specifically, four GDLs (AvCarb P-75, SIGRACET 34BC, SIGRACET 34BA and Toray TGP-H-090) have been studied, two of them including a microporous layer (MPL). The effect of the MPL has been inspected by contrast of the results obtained with the same GDL, with or without MPL. Potentiostatic boundary conditions have been applied, varying the electric potential between 1.05 and 0.35 V to obtain a representative i−V curve with enough resolution. Detailed postprocessing tasks were carried out to gain a deeper understanding on the phenomena occurring within the cell for each GDL. It can be concluded from this work that a high electrical conductivity and a high permeability lead to a better fuel cell performance. On the other hand, although the presence of MPL provides lower permeability leading to a worse overall performance, it has been shown that the lack of it may result in membrane dehydration and cell degradation issues.
Atul Verma, Ranga Pitchumani
ASME 2013 11th International Conference on Fuel Cell Science, Engineering and Technology · 2013
Understanding the performance of proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells is critical to the water management in the fuel cell system. Low-humidity operating conditions present a complex interaction between dynamic behavior and water transport owing to different time scales of water transport mechanisms in the transient process. Toward understanding the effects of membrane properties on the dynamic behavior, this paper presents numerical simulations for a single channel PEM fuel cell undergoing changes in load, by subjecting the unit cell to step change in current. The objective is to elucidate the complex interaction between cell voltage response and water transport dynamics for various membrane properties, where the performance is critically related water content of the membrane. Detailed computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations are carried out to show that step increase in current density leads to anode dryout due to electro-osmotic drag, and investigate its dependence on variations in membrane properties.
Sébastien Wasterlain, Denis Candusso, Fabien Harel et al.
Journal of Fuel Cell Science and Technology · 2010
A three-cell polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell stack equipped with perfluorinated ionomer membranes is tested for 1000 h in severe operating conditions. The fuel cell (FC) is fed by dry hydrogen/low humidified air and it is simultaneously operated at overnominal temperature. During the long term experiment, some polarization curves and electrochemical impedance spectra are recorded at regular time-spaced intervals for various stoichiometry rates. The objective is to characterize the degradation of FC performances with the aim to better understand the FC aging mechanisms. Some response surfaces are plotted to display and analyze the stack voltage variations as a function of aging time, static load current, and gas utilization rates. Different points of the FC impedance spectra are also considered. The evolutions of their coordinates in the Nyquist plot can be monitored versus aging time and for different gas utilization rates.
V. Venkatramanan, Shachi Shah, Ram Prasad
The Open Biotechnology Journal · 2021
Increasing demand for renewable energy in the backdrop of global change calls for waste valorization and circular economy strategies. Public health concerns and demand for clean energy provide impetus to the development of wastewater based MFC. Wastewater treatment and simultaneous generation of bioelectricity offer a myriad of environmental benefits. Nevertheless, it is pertinent to know the challenges with the microbial fuel cell (MFC) technology to upscale the wastewater based MFC. This paper attempts to critically analyse the processes, application, challenges and opportunities of wastewater based MFCs. A literature survey was conducted to find out the advances in the field of wastewater based MFCs and the focus was to decipher the challenges to the implementation of wastewater based MFCs. Recent developments in MFC technology have improved the power output and studies show that a diverse group of organic-rich wastewater can be treated with MFCs. The developments include improvements in MFC configuration, development of biocatalysts and biocathode, anodic biofilm formation, microbial community interactions, and progress in the organic and pollutant removal. Nevertheless, the MFC technology is replete with challenges about the organic removal rate, power density, electrode performance limiting factors, economic viability, high initial and maintenance cost and difficulty to maintain the exoelectrogens activity in a complex wastewater environment. Opportunities exist in scaling up of MFCs, integration with other wastewater treatment methods and measures to minimise the operating costs. MFCs have the potential to increase the resilience capacity of the sustainable wastewater treatment plant.
Shaoduan Ou, Luke E. K. Achenie
Journal of Fuel Cell Science and Technology · 2005
Artificial neural network (ANN) approaches for modeling of proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells have been investigated in this study. This type of data-driven approach is capable of inferring functional relationships among process variables (i.e., cell voltage, current density, feed concentration, airflow rate, etc.) in fuel cell systems. In our simulations, ANN models have shown to be accurate for modeling of fuel cell systems. Specifically, different approaches for ANN, including back-propagation feed-forward networks, and radial basis function networks, were considered. The back-propagation approach with the momentum term gave the best results. A study on the effect of Pt loading on the performance of a PEM fuel cell was conducted, and the simulated results show good agreement with the experimental data. Using the ANN model, an optimization model for determining optimal operating points of a PEM fuel cell has been developed. Results show the ability of the optimizer to capture the optimal operating point. The overall goal is to improve fuel cell system performance through numerical simulations and minimize the trial and error associated with laboratory experiments.
Tiancai Cheng, Qiang Liu, Guangjun Jiang et al.
Fuel Cells · 2024
Abstract The performance and durability of proton‐exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are constrained by fuel delivery and water management. Based on parallel and serpentine flow fields, the effects of triangular baffles (30°, 45°, and 60°) and conical runners (1°, 2°, and 3°) on the performance output of PEMFC at different angles are studied. The three‐dimensional and multi‐phase models are established by using the simulation software package (ANSYS FLUENT). The findings demonstrate that the battery's output performance reaches its peak when the baffle angle is set at 45°. When the output current density is 0.7 A/cm 2 , the power density of the 45° baffle increases by 18.87%. The pressure loss is not only lower than that of the 60° baffle but also exhibits no significant difference when compared to the 30° baffle. In addition, the introduction of conical channels has enhanced the output performance of PEMFCs in comparison to the traditional serpentine flow field. The power density of the 2°tapered channel exhibits a 12.65% increase when the output current density reaches 0.8 A/cm 2 . However, the performance output of the 3°tapered channel is inferior to that of the conventional serpentine flow field.
Li Wang, Qiao Lin, Jie Zhang et al.
Advanced Materials Research · 2013
Electrodes, catalysts, membranes, if present, are three main components in constructing a MFC for harvesting desired maximum power density and achieving higher coulombic efficiency (CE). Great improvements have been made, based on previous researches, in developing and diversifying materials, aside from architectures. Electrodes most familiar to us are widely used carbon materials. For anodes, carbon matrix composites (e.g., acombination of polyaniline (PANI) with TiO2 using carbon as substrate) have gained special attention, though carbon material itself can exhibit excellent performance by diversifying molecular structures such as carbon nanotubes (CNTs). In the meanwhile, the evolution of MFC architectures, heading to the direction of improving power generation, contributes to the combination of membranes and cathodes from separate modes to diverse assemblies, on which all sorts of catalysts, such as from commonly used Pt to iron phthalocyanine (Pc), metal tetramethoxyphenylporphyrin (TMPP), MnOx, or pyrolyzed iron (ll) phthalocyanine (pyr-FePc), can immobilize through synthesis of these catalysts with polymer such as Nafion 117 (Dupont Co., USA) or tetrafluoroethylene (Teflon) containing functional groups or Polypyrrole (PPy). This paper is mainly aimed at reviewing the development of materials in recent years and making several proposals.
Riya Bhattacharya, Debajyoti Bose, Pranathi Ganti et al.
Research Square · 2023
Abstract In plant microbial fuel cells or p-MFCs living plants photosynthesize between two electrodes. The plant exudes organic waste material from the roots. In the rhizosphere, bacteria consume these wastes by oxidizing them in contrast to the atmosphere that reduces it. This redox reaction along with photosynthesis can be harnessed as an energy source in the form of bioelectricity. In this work, the plant Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal was used for generating bioelectricity from the root exudates and organic matter available in the soil. An open circuit voltage of 930 ± 21 mV was achieved between multiple cycles of operation. The cell voltage further increased to 1260 ± 140 mV with enrichment in the form of discards from vegetable matter. The peak recorded voltage was 1400 mV. Graphite fibre felt electrodes ensured uniform microbial growth with power densities that were achieved at 57 mW/m 2 and 84 mW/m 2 with and without enrichment respectively. ATR-FTIR demonstrated complete degradation of specific compounds attached to the carbon matrix in the soil along with the polysaccharide content from the enrichments. Additionally, this work also monitored the changes in soil pH and its homogeneity, the impact of photosynthetically active radiation, humidity, and the presence of CO 2 in the air, and how it affects plant growth and ultimately the microbes at the rhizosphere which accounted for the bioremediation and the resultant bioelectricity production. SEM imaging further confirmed the importance of anaerobic environment and electrode properties that allow the growth of conductive biofilms from the electrochemically active microbes present in the soil.
Nicolas Chabert, Violaine Bonnefoy, Wafa Achouak
Microbial Biotechnology · 2017
Summary Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans is a strict acidophilic chemolithoautotrophic bacterium that obtains its energy from reduced inorganic sulfur species or ferrous iron oxidation under aerobic conditions. Carbon felt electrodes were pre‐colonized by A. ferrooxidans ATCC 23270 T using ferrous iron or sulfur as electron donors, via the addition (or not) of a mixture of C14 acyl‐homoserine lactones (C14‐ AHL s). Electrode coverage during pre‐colonization was sparse regardless of the electron donor source, whereas activation of quorum sensing significantly enhanced it. Microbial fuel cells ( MFC s) inoculated with pre‐colonized electrodes (which behaved as biocathodes) were more efficient in terms of current production when iron was used as an electron donor. Biocathode coverage and current output were remarkably increased to −0.56 A m −2 by concomitantly using iron‐based metabolism and C14‐ AHL s. Cyclic voltammetry displayed different electrochemical reactions in relation to the nature of the electron donor, underlying the implication of different electron transfer mechanisms.
Kartik S Aiyer
FEMS Microbiology Letters · 2020
ABSTRACT Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) offer a promising solution towards recovery and treatment of heavy metal pollutants. In this study, two-chambered MFCs were employed for recovery of chromium, copper and vanadium (Cr (VI), Cu (II) and V (V)). One g/L concentrations of K2Cr2O7, CuCl2 and NaVO3 served as catholytes, while a mixed culture was used as anolyte. Cr (VI), Cu (II) and V (V) were reduced biologically into less toxic forms of Cr (III), Cu and V (IV) respectively. Power density and cathodic efficiency were calculated for each of the catholytes. Cr (VI) gave the maximum power density and cathodic efficiency due to its high redox potential. Current produced depended on the concentration of the catholyte. Over a period of time, biological reduction of catholytes lead to decrease in the metal concentrations, which demonstrated the application of MFC technology towards heavy metal treatment and recovery in a reasonably cost-effective manner.
A. J. Majewski, U. Bossel, R. Steinberger‐Wilckens
Fuel Cells · 2018
Abstract The paper describes operation and optimization of an onboard reforming system for an auxiliary power unit solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC APU) system for trucks that use liquid natural gas as fuel. The reformer system is based on partial oxidation and produces a reformate gas flow sufficient for a 100 W fuel cell. The ALMUS AG concept and configuration of the SOFC APU unit is described. The paper presents analyses of the efficiency of the partial oxidation reformer. The selected catalyst AB10 is analyzed under various reaction temperatures and molar ratios of CH 4 :air. Two reforming reactor configurations are tested; both with 5 g of the catalyst. The optimal operating conditions for the reactor are proposed. The reformer is currently operated in an electric furnace that simulates the actual system and condition in a combustion chamber. The main focus is to obtain stable operation with high hydrogen yield and low coke deposition. The paper presents analyses of a 1,000 h partial oxidation stability test. The demonstration of the performance of the CPOX reformer confirms the system applicability. The observed slow catalyst deactivation is attributed to the detected coke deposition. The change to the structure of deposited coke along the reactor is explained.
Seokwon Cho, Stephen Busch, Angela Wu et al.
SAE International Journal of Advances and Current Practices in Mobility · 2022
<div class="section abstract"><div class="htmlview paragraph">To comply with increasingly stringent pollutant emissions regulations, diesel engine operation in a catalyst-heating mode is critical to achieve rapid light-off of exhaust aftertreatment catalysts during the first minutes of cold starting. Current approaches to catalyst-heating operation typically involve one or more late post injections to retard combustion phasing and increase exhaust temperatures. The ability to retard post injection timing(s) while maintaining acceptable pollutant emissions levels is pivotal for improved catalyst-heating calibrations. Higher fuel cetane number has been reported to enable later post injections with increased exhaust heat and decreased pollutant emissions, but the mechanism is not well understood. The purpose of this experimental and numerical simulation study is to provide further insight into the ways in which fuel cetane number affects combustion and pollutant formation in a medium-duty diesel engine.</div><div class="htmlview paragraph">Three full boiling-range diesel fuels with cetane numbers of approximately 45, 50, and 55 are employed in this study with a well-controlled set of calibrations employing a five-injection strategy. The two post injections are block-shifted to increasingly retarded timings, and the effects on exhaust heat and pollutant emissions are quantified for each fuel. For a given injection strategy calibration, increasing cetane number enables increased exhaust temperature and decreased hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide emissions for a fixed load. The increase in exhaust temperature is attributed to an increased fueling requirement to compensate for additional wall heat losses caused by earlier, more robust pilot combustion with the more reactive fuels. Formaldehyde is predicted to form in the fuel-lean periphery of the first pilot injection spray and can persist until exhaust valve opening in the absence of direct interactions with subsequent injections. Unreacted fuel-air mixture in the fuel-rich interior of the first-pilot spray is likely too cool for any significant reactions, and can persist until exhaust valve opening in the absence of turbulence/chemistry interactions and/or direct heating through interactions with subsequent injections.</div></div>
Antanas Zinovicius, Juste Rozene, Timas Merkelis et al.
Sensors · 2022
Electrically conductive polymers are promising materials for charge transfer from living cells to the anodes of electrochemical biosensors and biofuel cells. The modification of living cells by polypyrrole (PPy) causes shortened cell lifespan, burdens the replication process, and diminishes renewability in the long term. In this paper, the viability and morphology non-modified, inactivated, and PPy-modified yeasts were evaluated. The results displayed a reduction in cell size, an incremental increase in roughness parameters, and the formation of small structural clusters of polymers on the yeast cells with the increase in the pyrrole concentration used for modification. Yeast modified with the lowest pyrrole concentration showed minimal change; thus, a microbial fuel cell (MFC) was designed using yeast modified by a solution containing 0.05 M pyrrole and compared with the characteristics of an MFC based on non-modified yeast. The maximal generated power of the modified system was 47.12 mW/m2, which is 8.32 mW/m2 higher than that of the system based on non-modified yeast. The open-circuit potentials of the non-modified and PPy-modified yeast-based cells were 335 mV and 390 mV, respectively. Even though applying a PPy layer to yeast increases the charge-transfer efficiency towards the electrode, the damage done to the cells due to modification with a higher concentration of PPy diminishes the amount of charge transferred, as the current density drops by 846 μA/cm2. This decrease suggests that modification by PPy may have a cytotoxic effect that greatly hinders the metabolic activity of yeast.
Mark Yunovich
CORROSION 2004 · 2004
Abstract Magnesium anodes are provided to the corrosion control industry by a number of domestic and international manufacturers and distributors. Due to the difficulty and time involved in performance testing, anode composition is commonly the only criterion used for quality control by the end users. Many of the anodes, however, have been shown to meet the compositional and potential specifications, and yet have had measured efficiencies as low as 7%. The paper analyzes multiple ‘high potential’ anodes obtained from a variety of sources (manufacturers, distributors, and end users). The primary focus of the analysis was to establish whether any of the parameters could be used as a reliable predictor of the anode efficiency. The scope of the analysis included such characteristics as anode source, manufacturing process, macrostructure, chemical composition, and microstructure. The tested anodes exhibited efficiency range between 7 and 61 percent based on the ASTM G97 Standard Test Method. It was shown that compliance with the ASTM B843 can not serve as a predictor of the anode performance in the laboratory tests or field trial; electrochemical potentials are not an accurate predictor of the efficiency values. The primary finding of the study was that the efficiency of the high potential anodes is controlled by the presence of the iron-rich secondary phases in the grain boundaries. A correlation was determined between the extent to which the grain boundaries are decorated and the resulting ASTM G97 Standard Test Method efficiency.
Ting Zhu, Liu Feng, Chengwei Cao
Journal of Chemical Technology & Biotechnology · 2022
Abstract Background Hydrocarbon production is a potential emission source of arsenic. Sites contaminated by arsenic and hydrocarbons are common but have received little attention. This study selects soil polluted by petroleum hydrocarbons and arsenic as a matrix to construct soil microbial fuel cells (SMFCs), investigates the effect of arsenic on the performance of the SMFCs, so as to provide basic data for the remediation design of such sites, and thus provides a new technical option for the remediation of organic–inorganic‐contaminated sites. Results Five groups of SMFCs were tested under different soil arsenic concentrations. When soil arsenic concentration increased from 4.72 to 842.12 mg kg −1 , the maximum power density of the SMFCs decreased from 11.3 to 1.8 mW m −2 , while the internal resistance increased from 871.4 to 1322.1 Ω. The anode microbial community of the SMFCs aggregated arsenic‐resistant and electric adaptive microbes due to increased arsenic stress, resulting in a decrease in community abundance but an increase in community evenness, which accordingly contributed to the observed change in bioelectricity output. SMFCs did drive the migration of arsenic in soil to the cathode, and this effect decreased with increasing soil arsenic concentration. Conclusions With an increase of arsenic, the bioelectricity output of SMFCs was significantly inhibited and the abundance of anode microbial communities decreased. SMFCs did have a cathodic driving effect on arsenic in the soil. This study has practical significance for improving SMFCs in metal/metalloid‐polluted sites, which can provide an optional process for the remediation of organic–metal/metalloid‐polluted sites. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Jonathan Teik Ean Goh, Ainul Rasyidah Abdul Rahim, Mohd Shahbudin Masdar et al.
Membranes · 2021
The polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) is a key component in the PEM fuel cell (PEMFC) system. This study highlights the latest development of PEM technology by combining Nafion® and ionic liquids, namely 2–Hydroxyethylammonium Formate (2–HEAF) and Propylammonium Nitrate (PAN). Test membranes were prepared using the casting technique. The impact of functional groups in grafting, morphology, thermal stability, ion exchange capacity, water absorption, swelling and proton conductivity for the prepared membranes is discussed. Both hybrid membranes showed higher values in ion exchange capacity, water uptake and swelling rate as compared to the recast pure Nafion® membrane. The results also show that the proton conductivity of Nafion®/2–HEAF and Nafion®/PAN membranes increased with increasing ionic liquid concentrations. The maximum values of proton conductivity for Nafion®/2–HEAF and Nafion®/PAN membranes were 2.87 and 4.55 mScm−1, respectively, equivalent to 2.2 and 3.5 times that of the pure recast Nafion® membrane.
Marcelinus Christwardana, J. Joelianingsih, Linda Aliffia Yoshi
Journal of Electrochemical Science and Engineering · 2023
The microbial fuel cell (MFC) is an ecologically friendly alternative energy source. Due to the typically limited electron transfer in MFC systems, co-biocatalysts are necessary to enhance their performance. Enzymes are used as co-biocatalysts due to their superior ability to generate energy, and the system is known as an enzymatic microbial fuel cell (EMFC). One of the substrates that may be used is bagasse waste extracted from sugarcane. Saccharomyces cerevisiae and the enzyme glucose oxidase (GOx) serve as co-biocatalysts in the breakdown of sugarcane bagasse waste in this study, which uses single-chamber EMFCs. In EMFC using sugarcane bagasse waste extract employing S. cerevisiae biocatalyst and glucose oxidase enzyme co-biocatalyst, the open circuit voltage was 0.56 V and the maximum power density was 146.65 mW m-2, an increase of 10.4 times to MFCs that solely employed only yeast biocatalyst. In addition, the chemical oxygen demand (COD) reduction achieved by this technology is 75 %. In addition, the pH of sugarcane bagasse waste extract samples treated with Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast and GOx enzyme decreased from 4.6 to 4.2. This research demonstrates that adding the co-biocatalyst GOx enzyme may boost the performance of the traditional yeast MFC.
I. P. Sahu, M. K. Das, M. K. Soni et al.
Journal of Applied Research and Technology · 2024
In the present study, the flow field in the bi-polar plate and Gas diffusion layer (GDL) of 1.2 kW Nexa fuel cell (FC) training system having a serpentine flow field has been examined. The channel dimension and shape in the flow field of the bipolar/end plates have been examined. Pressure drop with hydrogen flow rate and channel length. For enormous hydrogen inputs, The optimal measurement is around 1.5, 1.5,, and 0.5 mm for the values of channel width, channel depth, and width of land, corresponding Research on the effect of channel designs revealed that semi-circular, rectangle and triangular-shaped and found The land width for triangular and semicircular-shaped are almost zero millimeters which increase the water vapor accumulation, due to which the losses increase. However there are very few losses in the polarization curve seen in the square cross-section because there is very l water vapor buildup. A GDL is an essential component of an FC. The three-dimensional model of the GDL is simulated using COMSOL metaphysics 4.2 and observed that increased porosity facilitated the entry of more reactants into the reaction side, resulting in increased current density. Low membrane thickness resulted from excessive current density in the membrane. Thicker GDL provides reactant species that raise the rate of consumption at the point where the catalytic layer and GDL interface. The outcomes of the simulation are contrasted with experimental data found in published works. The comparison demonstrates that the modeling outcomes and the experimental data agree quite well.
S. Bégot, F. Harel, J. M. Kauffmann
Fuel Cells · 2008
Abstract In this paper, experimental investigations on the influence of operational parameters on PEM fuel cell cold start are presented. The effect of current density, stack impedance at 1 kHz prior to start, as well as gas flow rate, gas pressure, coolant flow rate and surrounding subfreezing temperature are studied. The experimental apparatus is briefly described. It includes a main unit at room temperature and a smaller separate unit in a climatic chamber. Low current density, high impedance prior to start, moderate subfreezing temperature (–5 °C), high gas flow rate, low gas pressure and low coolant flow rate are found to have a positive impact on the cold start performance. Combining these parameters, self start‐up of the fuel cell without additional energy is achieved at –5 °C in 30 min. The whole set of observations leads to the following hypotheses on freeze mechanism: in the first phase, dry membranes and low current lead to a transient phase of membrane humidification. Then, in the second phase, ice clogging of the active layers occurs. In the third phase, a variable quantity of the produced water reaches the gas diffusion layers and channels.
Guangyi Zhang, Zhongchen Wang, Mengshuo Liu et al.
Journal of The Electrochemical Society · 2023
Green and sustainable techniques are in great demand for the remediation of heavy metal-contaminated soil. Cadmium ion (Cd 2+ ) in soil could be extracted under the internal electric field and participating on the surface of the electrode. Here, we proposed a sediment microbial fuel cell (SMFC) for the electrokinetic remediation of cadmium (Cd) contamination soil. Within the 7 weeks of SMFC operation, the removal efficiency for total Cd could be up to 70.04 ± 0.45%, which was significantly higher than that obtained by open circuit SMFC. The maximum output power density was 71.00 ± 0.82 mW m −2 with a current density of 0.60 ± 0.03 A m −2 . Results obtained by electrochemical impedance showed that the inter resistance of SMFC was 944 ± 14 Ω. High-throughput sequencing revealed that the Alpha-, Beta- and Gammaproteobacteria increased to 67.85%–80.99% in the SMFC. The relative abundance of Cd 2+ /Zn 2+ -exporting ATPase, participating in Cd 2+ reduction, in SMFC varied from 25.83% to 30.68%, which were significantly higher than that of control (11.21% to 19.94%). Our findings have presented an effective energy-saving method for the remediation of heavy metal-contaminated soils.
Yuhong Zhou, Simeng Zhao, Lu Yin et al.
Electroanalysis · 2018
Abstract A novel membrane‐less microbial fuel cell (ML‐MFC) which used the baffles instead of the ion exchange membrane (IEM) was developed for ammonium‐containing wastewater treatment and electricity generation. By means of installing an ideal nitrifying unit between the anodic and cathodic chamber, the novel ML‐MFC accomplished organics degradation and nitrogen removal without additional loop. The removal efficiencies of COD, NH 4 + −N and TN achieved 97.07±0.47 %, 91.76±3.32 % and 87.66±1.59 %, respectively. Meanwhile, the effluent pH was near neutral and turbidity was quite low. In addition, the maximum power density of 1.007±0.032 W/m 3 was obtained. Combined with the analysis of microbial community, electroactive bacteria (EAB) Desulfovibrio , Comamonas and Thiobacillus were enriched in biofilm. Considering the superior effluent quality and the promising energy potential, the novel ML‐MFC has good application prospects in efficient and sustainable wastewater treatment.
Yatin Patil, Sunil Kulkarni, Kenneth A. Mauritz
Journal of Applied Polymer Science · 2011
Abstract Nafion® membranes were modified via in situ , catalyzed sol–gel reactions of titanium isopropoxide to form titania particles in the polar acid domains. FTIR spectroscopy showed successful intraparticle chemical bond formation with incomplete condensation of TiOH groups. Although such modification can lower membrane fuel cell performance, this study was aimed at reducing membrane degradation without significantly altering performance in the sense of material optimization. These incorporated particles did not change membrane equivalent weight and the water uptake was similar to that of the unmodified Nafion® membrane. Membrane dimensional stability, mechanical properties, and ability to withstand contractile stresses associated with humidity change at 80°C and 100% RH were improved. An open circuit voltage (OCV) accelerated degradation test showed the titania modification held voltage better than the unmodified membrane. Performance deterioration of Nafion® after the OCV test was much higher than that of the modified membrane and the fluoride emission of the latter was lower. The degraded Nafion® membrane failed when subjected to creep, whereas the modified membrane remained intact with significantly low deformation. This inorganic modification offers a simple way to enhance membrane durability by reducing both physical and chemical degradation. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Sandy L. Calderon, Pilar García Avelino, Angélica María Baena-Moncada et al.
Sustainable Environment Research · 2020
Abstract This study is focused on electrical energy generation in a double-compartment microbial fuel cell. Carbon felt impregnated with multi-walled carbon nanotubes was used as an anode, which contained gold nanoparticles and Shewanella spp. grown under aerobic conditions was used as a biocatalyst. The electrodes, used before and after biofilm growth, were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and cyclic voltammetry. The results revealed the formation of Shewanella spp. colonies on the electrode surface and electrochemical activity under aerobic and anaerobic conditions. During biofilm growth in Luria Bertani medium, a stabilized average power density of 281 mW m − 2 was recorded. Subsequently, the cell reached a maximum current density of 0.11 mA cm − 2 after 72 h of operation and a coulombic efficiency of 65% under anaerobic conditions.
Omar José Duarte-Urbina, F. Fernández-Luqueño, G. Vargas-Gutiérrez et al.
ECS Meeting Abstracts · 2018
Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) represent a sustainable alternative to generate energy from wastewater treatment, reducing the consumption and pollution of fossil fuels, which are used in traditional technologies. An effective way to improve the performance of MFCs is the use metal-free carbon-based anode catalysts, which have shown high catalytic activity with significantly lower cost than noble metals. In this study, the synthesis and characterization of methanol-functionalized carbon catalysts is reported. Onion waste has been thermochemically treated via carbonization, chemical activation with ZnCl 2 and pyrolysis at 400, 600 and 800 ºC (named CCA4, CCA6 and CCA8, respectively). Graphite flakes have been ball milled in the presence of thiourea and ZnCl 2 , followed by pyrolysis at a 500 ºC in order to obtain the graphene catalyst (named GNS). Subsequently, the carbons have been submitted to surface functionalization with methanol using the intermittent microwave heating technique to produce the CCA4f, CCA6f, CCA8f and GNSf catalysts. Anodes have been fabricated by depositing catalytic layers (separately) of CCA4f, CCA6f, CCA8f and GNSf on gas diffusion electrodes. The catalytic activity of the anodes has been evaluated by cyclic voltammetry (VC) in a three electrodes half-cell, using Pharmaceutical Wastewater (PWW) as electrolyte, and compared to that of a gas diffusion electrode without catalyst. The results show that the mechanochemical treatment of graphite in the presence of thiourea modifies its crystalline structure producing the heteroatoms-doped GNS. Meanwhile, CCA4, CCA6 and CCA8 have an amorphous structure self-doped with the N and S heteroatoms. The catalysts are thermally stable at 700 ºC and exhibit a highly heterogeneous morphology. Nitrogen adsorption-desorption and BET analyses indicate that the activation with ZnCl 2 promotes the formation of mesoporous structures with average pore size ranging from 11.38 (GNSf) to around 2 nm (CCA4f, CCA6f and CCA8f). Moreover, the specific surface areas of CCA4f, CCA6f and CCA8f (1468, 1611 and 1269 m 2 g -1 , respectively) are approximately 20 times higher than that of GNSf (69.7 m 2 g -1 ). The electrochemical characterization demonstrates that the increase in activation temperature improves the catalytic activity of the CCAf series of catalysts for the oxidation of organic matter in the PWW electrolyte. The current density (j) decreases in the order CCA8f>CCA6f>CCA4f. On the other hand, the catalytic activity of GNSf is less than those of CCA8f and CCA6f, but similar to CCA4f. The results show that the metal-free CCAf carbons have the potential to be used as anode catalysts in MFCs.
Topal Leyla, Carolina Nunes Kirchner, Wiebke Germer et al.
International Journal of Renewable Energy Development · 2014
The effects of different temperatures (55, 65, 75 and 85 °C) and cathode gas compositions (O2, synthetic air, air and 90% synthetic air+10% CO2) on alkaline anion exchange membrane fuel cell (AAEMFC) were evaluated. Membrane electrode assemblies (MEA) were fabricated using commercial anion exchange membrane (AEM) in OH- form and Pt catalyst. Polarization curves and voltage responses during constant current were performed in order to describe the influences of temperature and gas composition on the AAEMFC performance. The experimental results showed that the fuel cell performance increases with elevating temperatures for all applied gas compositions. Highest power density of 34.7 mW cm-2 was achieved for pure O2 as cathode feed. A decrease to 20.3 mW cm-2 was observed when cathode gas composition was changed to synthetic air due to reduction of the O2 partial pressure. The presence of CO2 in atmospheric air applied to the cathode stream caused a further drop of the maximum power density to 15.2 mW cm-2 driven by neutralization of OH- ions with CO2.
Licheng Zhang, Xiao Chen, Chi Zhang et al.
Journal of Chemical Technology & Biotechnology · 2025
Abstract Background The continuous flow double‐sludge anaerobic/aerobic/anoxic process is a good choice for removing nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) simultaneously, although these are difficult to remove efficiently. Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) can extract energy from wastewater and use electrons to remove pollutants. This study proposes a novel integration of MFCs with the continuous flow double‐sludge AOA process, investigating the system's performance across different carbon (C)/N ratios (2, 3.5, 5 and 6.5) in terms of pollutant removal, electricity generation and microbial community structure. Result When the influent C/N ratio was 3.5, the average removal rates of chemical oxygen demand, ammonium (NH 4 + )‐N, and phosphate (PO 4 3− )‐P were 92.01%, 79.68% and 92.91%, respectively, and the average simultaneous nitrification and denitrification (SND) and SND P removal (SNDPR) rates of nitrogen oxide (NO x − )‐N were 53.30% and 42.09%, respectively. The diversity and abundance of microbial community were at a good level, and the relative abundance of Dechloromonas , Pseudomonas and Candidatus_Competibacter reached 4.16%, 2.16% and 4.61%, respectively, at C/N = 3.5. Conclusions Significant differences in pollutant removal were observed under different C/N conditions, with electron acceptors emerging as the biggest factor affecting power generation. According to the microbiological results, the combination of lower C/N ratios and higher PO 4 3− ‐P contributed to the enrichment of key functional microorganisms. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).