Optimizing microbial electrolysis cell performance: strategies to mitigate electron mediator degradation on membranes

This investigation probes the role of the electron mediator, neutral red (NR), in the electrosynthesis process, specifically examining its effect on the production of succinic acid by Actinobacillus succinogenes. Our findings reveal that NR, when integrated into the cell membrane, is pivotal for sustaining MEC efficiency. Nevertheless, it is susceptible to both intrinsic and MECs-induced degradation. Notably, during the exponential growth phase of the bacteria, NR is readily incorporated into the cell membrane. However, the supplemental addition of NR fails to significantly enhance the MEC’s capacity for succinic acid synthesis, no matter what stage of bacterial growth. And significant depletion of membrane-associated NR is not adequately compensated by the NR present in the fermentation liquid. The ORP feedback-regulated MECs adeptly conserve the NR on the cell membrane, which is essential for maintaining the efficiency of long-term electrosynthesis. The presence of NR on the cell membrane is essential for the functionality of MECs, yet its external replenishment hard. Implementing precise electro-potential regulation strategies can effectively diminish the degradation of NR, thus maintaining the system’s efficiency.