Construction of conductive modified polyethylene terephthalate-supported cathode in microbial fuel cell for nitrate removal.
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75% confidenceThis study developed a conductive modified polyethylene terephthalate (PET)-supported cathode for microbial fuel cells, achieving high power density and long-term operational stability. The PET-supported cathode modified with polypyrrole and carbon nanotubes showed improved nitrate removal efficiency and biofilm viability. The study demonstrates a cost-effective and environmentally friendly approach for wastewater treatment.
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Abstract
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) has broad environmental applications, yet its inherent poor conductivity limits its utility in microbial fuel cell (MFC). This study addressed the need for cost-effective and conductive PET-supported materials. In this study, PET-supported three-dimensional materials were used as a substrate, introducing the conductive coating layer that enhanced hydrophilicity, electrochemically active surface area, and decreased charge transfer resistance. The PET-supported cathode modified with polypyrrole (PPy) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) achieved a maximal power density (758.2 mW/m 2 ) with long-term operational stability for 4 months. The PET/PPy/CNTs cathode exhibited 2.23-fold higher nitrate removal efficiency than carbon felt cathode. Notably, the average viability of biofilm on the internal surface of PET/PPy/CNTs (63.5%) was 2.89-fold higher than carbon felt. Furthermore, the PET/PPy/CNTs demonstrated significant cost-effectiveness with a cost of approximately $2.04/m 2 . Considering the superior bioelectrochemical performance, low costs, and low life cycle environmental impacts, the PET-supported cathode demonstrates notable potential for enhancing MFC performance.