Waste-derived biochar: Applications and future perspective in microbial fuel cells

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Electrochemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are emerging as a dual-purpose technology for wastewater treatment and energy generation.
• Current MFC research focuses on developing cost-effective, field-scale systems for removing diverse pollutants and powering low-energy devices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the application of biochar in microbial fuel cells (MFCs).
• To explore biochar's potential as a low-cost material for electrodes, electrocatalysts, and proton exchange membranes (PEMs) in MFCs.
• To highlight future research directions for implementing biochar-based components in field-scale MFCs.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of biochar applications in MFCs.
• Analysis of biochar's properties relevant to MFC performance.
• Discussion of cost-reduction strategies using waste-derived materials.

Main Results:

• Biochar can be utilized as standalone electrodes, electrocatalysts, and as a material for proton exchange membranes (PEMs) in MFCs.
• The characteristics of biochar influence its effectiveness in these different roles within MFCs.
• Utilizing waste-derived biochar can significantly reduce the fabrication cost of MFC devices.

Conclusions:

• Biochar presents a promising low-cost material for enhancing MFC performance and reducing construction costs.
• Further research into biochar-based PEMs and electrodes is crucial for the successful implementation of field-scale MFCs.
• Developing MFCs with biochar components aligns with sustainable waste management and energy recovery goals.