Improvement of Power Generation in Microbial Fuel Cells Via Anode Modification with TiC@C-TiO₂/PANI Nanocomposite

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) face challenges with low energy density.
• Electrode surface modification is a key strategy to enhance MFC power generation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and evaluate a novel TiC@C-TiO2/PANI nanostructure for MFC anode modification.
• To improve the power generation capabilities of MFCs through advanced anode design.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of TiC@C-TiO2/PANI nanostructure.
• Characterization using FESEM, HRTEM, EDX, FTIR, and XRD.
• Electrochemical performance evaluation via polarization tests, cyclic voltammetry, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy.

Main Results:

• Polyaniline (PANI) incorporation was confirmed on the TiC@C-TiO2 nanostructure.
• The modified anode with 1.5% PANI achieved a power density of 435 mW.m⁻², a 55% increase over the unmodified anode.
• Significant improvements in anodic peak current and a substantial reduction in charge transfer resistance were observed.

Conclusions:

• The TiC@C-TiO2/PANI nanostructure effectively enhances MFC anode performance.
• This material shows great potential for advancing bioelectricity generation in MFCs.
• Optimized polyaniline content is crucial for maximizing power output.