Algae-driven bioelectrochemical systems: Recent advances, applications, and prospects

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology and Environmental Science
• Renewable Energy Systems
• Sustainable Engineering

Background:

• Bioelectrochemical systems (BESs), particularly microbial fuel cells (MFCs), are advanced sustainable biotechnologies.
• Algae-assisted MFCs (algae-MFCs) are emerging as a key innovation for simultaneous bioelectricity generation and wastewater treatment.
• These systems leverage photosynthesis for CO2 sequestration, oxygen production, and biomass generation, enhancing economic and environmental viability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in algae-based MFCs, focusing on bioelectricity and biofuel production.
• To examine the influence of reactor design and operational parameters on algae-MFC performance.
• To assess the scalability, technoeconomic feasibility, and future potential of algae-based BESs.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of recent studies on algae-MFCs.
• Analysis of reported data on bioelectricity generation and biofuel yields.
• Evaluation of reactor configurations, scaling strategies, and computational modeling approaches.

Main Results:

• Algae-MFCs demonstrate significant potential for bioelectricity generation (up to 26,680 mW/m2) and diverse biofuel outputs (e.g., biohydrogen, biomethane, bioethanol, biodiesel).
• Innovations include advancements in biokerosene (bio-jet) technology.
• Reactor components and configurations significantly impact system performance, with ongoing research into scaling strategies and real-time applications.

Conclusions:

• Algae-MFCs are effective in wastewater treatment and bioenergy production, offering a carbon-neutral approach.
• Technoeconomic viability and scalability challenges are being addressed.
• Future research should focus on optimizing designs and exploring novel applications for enhanced sustainability.