Efficient biodechlorination at the Fe₃O₄-based silicone powder modified chlorobenzene-affinity anode

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Electrochemistry
• Microbiology

Background:

• Chlorinated volatile organic compounds (CVOCs) pose environmental risks due to secondary pollution and inefficient removal.
• Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) offer a promising bioelectrochemical approach for CVOC abatement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel anode material for enhanced CVOC removal and power generation in MFCs.
• To investigate the synergistic effects of Fe3O4 nanoparticles and silicone-based powder on anode performance.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a novel anode by immobilizing Fe3O4 nanoparticles and silicone-based powder onto carbon felt (CF+Fe3O4@SP).
• Utilizing the modified anode in a chlorobenzene (CB)-powered MFC to assess biodechlorination efficiency and power output.
• Analyzing microbial community structure and physiological changes in response to the modified anode.

Main Results:

• The CF+Fe3O4@SP anode achieved 98.5% removal of 200 mg/L CB within 28 hours.
• Maximum power density increased by 45.6% to 675.9 mW/m³ compared to the bare CF anode.
• Microbial analysis revealed dominance of specific genera and enhanced bacterial activity, EPS secretion, and protein content.

Conclusions:

• The novel CF+Fe3O4@SP anode demonstrates superior performance for CVOC removal and power generation in MFCs.
• The synergistic effects of Fe3O4 and SP enhance microbial activity and electrochemical performance.
• This technology offers a promising strategy for treating refractory and hydrophobic volatile organic compounds.