Microbial fuel cell centric nutrient rebalancing and recycling from human waste in space missions

Efficient human waste management and hygiene maintenance are vital for long-duration space missions. By using bioelectrochemical systems, specifically microbial fuel cells (MFCs) combined with hydroponics, human waste can potentially be converted into a valuable commodity. Recent advancements in MFCs indicate a significant potential for generating electricity (1-2 mW/single MFC/ml of urine) and biofertilisers concurrently from urine and sewage while suppressing human pathogens that may be present. Integrating MFCs with hydroponics opens up the possibility to balance nutrients in human waste while growing vegetables in MFC-powered hydroponic systems, using only a small percentage of synthetic fertilisers, if deemed necessary. This is a concise perspective of the potential of MFCs for nutrient recycling from human waste and vegetable production that could enhance the self-sustainability of a spacecraft or mission.