Evaluation of Inlet Design and Flow Rate Effect on Current Density Distribution in a Microbial Electrolysis Cell Using Computational Simulation Techniques, Coupling Hydrodynamics and Bioanode Kinetics.
Y. Reyes-Vidal, J. López-Maldonado, F. Castañeda, G. Orozco +1
AI summary
70% confidenceA theoretical model was developed to study the effect of inlet design and flow rate on current density distribution in a microbial electrolysis cell (MEC). The model considered a direct electron transfer mechanism and a dual donor-acceptor Nernst-Monod bioelectrochemical kinetic expression. The results showed that flow distribution significantly impacts reactor performance, with a modified inlet configuration leading to more homogeneous fluid distribution.
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Abstract
Abstract A theoretical model that describe the effect of design and operational conditions on current density distribution in a bioelectrochemical reactor used as microbial electrolysis cell (MEC) is described in this study. This model is proposed considering an approach where a direct electron transfer mechanism from the biofilm to the electrode surface takes place (mechanism present in most of microbial systems) and is governed by a dual donor-acceptor Nernst-Monod bioelectrochemical kinetic expression. The bioelectrochemical reactor is modelled considering two flow electrochemical reactor designs (a reactor design based in literature reports and a modified system proposed by the authors) operating at different flow inlet velocities and electrical overpotentials. Results obtained from the numerical solution shows that flow distribution is an essential aspect that impact the reactor performance, since concentration profiles and electrical potential-current distributions are strongly dependent on flow regime. Modified inlet configuration displays a more homogeneous fluid distribution and this behavior directly affects the mass transport and current density performance, as a result higher current density values are obtained for such configuration. Finally, it is expected that the information obtained from the analysis carried out in this report will provide us with a theoretical basis to realize the construction of a bioelectrochemical reactor prototype to develop the MEC concept.
Key findings
- Flow distribution is essential for reactor performance, affecting concentration profiles and electrical potential-current distributions.
- A modified inlet configuration leads to more homogeneous fluid distribution, improving reactor performance.
- The direct electron transfer mechanism and dual donor-acceptor Nernst-Monod bioelectrochemical kinetic expression are crucial for modeling MEC behavior.
Keywords
Identifiers
- Journal
- International Journal of Chemical Reactor Engineering
- Year
- 2018