Emerging frontiers in microbial fuel cell technology for sustainable energy generation

A microbial fuel cell (MFC) is a system that utilizes microorganisms to transform organic matter directly into electrical energy. Compared to chemical fuel cell (CFC), which uses chemical catalysts for fuel oxidation and oxygen reduction, MFCs utilize living microbes as biocatalysts for electron transfer. MFC is an innovative technology that offers a sustainable method for energy generation by combining wastewater treatment with renewable power production. This review discusses the technical challenges of the MFC research field, including optimizing biofilm formation on electrodes, low power output, slow reaction kinetics, microbial consortia management, and overall performance optimization. It also aims to provide an idea for researchers to facilitate the scaling up of MFC technology. Developing efficient biofilm and active electrode materials while optimizing operational parameters such as pH, temperature, nutrient availability, and sludge management is discussed in this review paper. The development of the anode biofilm majorly improves MFC performance by lowering charge transfer resistance, which leads to an increase in power density as the biofilm improves the conversion of chemical energy into electrical energy. The review also explores approaches for cultivating and enriching microbial communities and biofilm modification techniques to increase power generation and improve substrate utilization. MFCs hold potential for eco-friendly energy solutions, contributing to global energy sustainability and waste management challenges. Finally, the review focuses on the need for continued research to improve economic viability and practical applicability in real-world scenarios.