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Combined microalgal photobioreactor/microbial fuel cell system: Performance analysis under different process
Silvia Bolognesi1, Daniele Cecconet2, Arianna Callegari3
1Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, University of Pavia, Via Adolfo Ferrata 3, 27100, Pavia, Italy; LEQUiA, Institute of the Environment, Universitat de Girona, 69, M(a) Aurèlia Capmany, Girona, 17003, Spain.
Environmental Research
|October 9, 2020
Summary
Microbial fuel cells combined with microalgal photobioreactors offer a sustainable solution for wastewater treatment, achieving high COD removal and resource recovery while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Biotechnology
- Wastewater Treatment Technologies
- Renewable Energy Systems
Background:
- Rising energy demands and greenhouse gas emissions from conventional wastewater treatment necessitate sustainable alternatives.
- Microbial fuel cell (MFC) technology offers energy recovery, but its efficiency can be limited.
- Microalgal processes can capture CO2 and recover resources from wastewater.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of MFC-photobioreactor (PBR) systems for enhanced wastewater treatment.
- To evaluate greenhouse gas emission reduction and resource recovery potential.
- To compare MFC-PBR performance against a control MFC under various conditions.
Main Methods:
- Two MFC-PBR configurations were tested with synthetic and agro-industrial wastewater.
- Performance was evaluated under different operating conditions.
- Key metrics included Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) removal efficiency (ηCOD) and energy production.
Main Results:
- MFC-PBR systems achieved high COD removal efficiencies, up to 99%.
- The system with a microalgal biocathode demonstrated superior performance in treating real wastewater compared to the control MFC.
- Algal-provided oxygen improved the system's energy balance.
Conclusions:
- MFC-PBR systems present a promising approach for efficient wastewater treatment, resource recovery, and reduced environmental impact.
- The integration of microalgae enhances the MFC's performance and energy efficiency.
- Further opportunities exist for resource recovery from the treated effluent.
Keywords:
Bioelectrochemical systemsBiorefineryCO(2) recoveryChlorellaDairy wastewaterRenewable energyWastewater treatmentMore Related Videos
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