Assessment upon azo dye decolorization and bioelectricity generation by Proteus hauseri

Area of Science:

• Environmental Microbiology
• Bioelectrochemistry
• Wastewater Treatment

Background:

• Industrial wastewater often contains recalcitrant azo dyes.
• Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) offer a sustainable approach for wastewater treatment and energy generation.
• The interplay between dye decolorization and bioelectricity generation in MFCs requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the dye decolorization and bioelectricity generation capabilities of Proteus hauseri ZMd44.
• To explore the impact of azo dye chemical structure on microbial performance in MFCs.
• To elucidate the mechanisms of electron transfer during dye decolorization and power generation.

Main Methods:

• Utilized single-chamber microbial fuel cells (MFCs) with indigenous Proteus hauseri ZMd44.
• Introduced C.I. reactive blue 160 (RBu160) at varying concentrations to assess its effect on decolorization and bioelectricity.
• Analyzed decolorized intermediates to identify potential electron shuttles.

Main Results:

• Proteus hauseri ZMd44 demonstrated simultaneous decolorization of RBu160 and bioelectricity generation.
• Optimal RBu160 concentrations stimulated both processes, while high concentrations inhibited power production.
• Decolorized intermediates, RBu160-phenyl methadiamine and 5-sulfoanthranilic acid, were identified as potential electron shuttles.

Conclusions:

• Proteus hauseri ZMd44 is a promising candidate for treating dye-bearing wastewater and generating bioelectricity.
• The efficiency of MFCs is influenced by dye structure and concentration, highlighting the need for careful process optimization.
• Electron shuttling by dye intermediates plays a crucial role in mediating electron transport for current generation in MFCs.