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Related Experiment Video

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Estimating Sediment Denitrification Rates Using Cores and N2O Microsensors

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Published on: December 6, 2018

Biological denitrification in microbial fuel cells.

Peter Clauwaert¹, Korneel Rabaey, Peter Aelterman

¹Laboratory of Microbial Ecology and Technology (LabMET), Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.

Environmental Science & Technology

|June 2, 2007

Summary

This study introduces a novel microbial fuel cell (MFC) that simultaneously removes organic matter and nitrogen compounds from wastewater, generating power. This innovative MFC achieves complete denitrification using biological anodes and cathodes without external power or hydrogen production.

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Published on: October 7, 2020

Area of Science:

Environmental Science
Electrochemistry
Microbiology

Background:

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are of significant interest for simultaneous wastewater treatment and energy generation.
Efficient removal of both carbon and nitrogen compounds from wastewater remains a challenge in practical applications.

Purpose of the Study:

To develop and evaluate a MFC capable of complete denitrification using biological processes in both the anode and cathode.
To assess the MFC's performance in terms of nitrogen removal rate, power production, and operational parameters.

Main Methods:

A tubular MFC with an internal cathode and a cation exchange membrane was constructed.
Microorganisms in the anode oxidized acetate, supplying electrons to the cathode for denitrification.
Cathodic electrode potential was controlled to optimize denitrification.

Main Results:

The MFC achieved high nitrate removal rates (up to 0.146 kg NO(3-)-N m(-3) NCC d(-1)).
Significant power output was recorded (up to 8 W m(-3) NCC).
Effective denitrification occurred at cathodic potentials below 0 V vs. SHE, limited by microbial activity.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrates the first MFC with a biological anode and cathode for simultaneous organic substrate removal, power generation, and complete denitrification.
The developed MFC offers a sustainable solution for wastewater treatment without external power or reliance on hydrogen formation.