Enhanced textile dye wastewater treatment and power generation in microbial fuel cells using Bixa orellana fruit...

This study investigates the novel application of biochar derived from Bixa orellana fruit shell (BOFS), an underutilized agricultural waste, to enhance the performance of microbial fuel cells (MFCs) for textile dye wastewater treatment and energy generation. Four different BOFS biochar doses (0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 g) were examined, and the optimal dose of 1.5 g achieved a maximum power density of 300 mW/m²-representing a 24-fold enhancement over the control-along with 88.39% COD removal, 81.6% decolorization efficiency, and 84.4% TDS reduction. Structural and compositional analyses using SEM, EDX, FTIR, and UV-Vis spectrophotometry confirmed improved biofilm formation, efficient pollutant adsorption, and azo bond degradation, indicating synergistic enhancement of both bioelectrochemical and treatment performance. The study uniquely demonstrates the dual functionality of BOFS biochar as a low-cost, conductive, and sustainable additive that promotes microbial adhesion and electron transfer while valorizing agricultural waste. These findings position BOFS biochar as an innovative, eco-friendly bioelectrochemical enhancer for scalable applications in wastewater remediation and renewable energy generation.