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Hydrogen production in single-chamber microbial electrolysis cells using Ponceau S dye
Rumeysa Cebecioglu1, Dilan Akagunduz1, Tunc Catal1,2
1Istanbul Protein Research-Application and Inovation Center (PROMER), Istanbul, Turkey.
3 Biotech
|January 14, 2021
Summary
This study shows that hazardous Ponceau S dye in wastewater can be used to produce hydrogen using microbial electrolysis. Optimal hydrogen production and dye decolorization were achieved at specific dye concentrations.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Biotechnology
- Chemical Engineering
Background:
- Industrial wastewater often contains hazardous azo dyes like Ponceau S.
- Microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) offer a potential solution for wastewater treatment and energy recovery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate hydrogen production from Ponceau S dye in a single-chamber, membrane-free MEC.
- To evaluate the impact of varying Ponceau S concentrations on hydrogen generation and dye decolorization.
Main Methods:
- Ponceau S dye was introduced into MECs at concentrations of 10-40 mg L⁻¹.
- Gas content (H₂, CO₂, CH₄) was analyzed daily using gas chromatography.
- Chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal was assessed.
Main Results:
- Successful hydrogen production was observed in the presence of Ponceau S.
- Maximum hydrogen production (18 mL) occurred at 20 mg L⁻¹ Ponceau S.
- Decolorization rates ranged from 85-100%, with 94.78% COD removal at 40 mg L⁻¹ Ponceau S.
Conclusions:
- MECs can effectively generate hydrogen from azo dye-contaminated wastewater.
- Simultaneous decolorization of Ponceau S and hydrogen production is feasible.
- Ponceau S concentration influences hydrogen production rates and yield.
