Evaluating the electrode materials to improve electricity generation with the removal of multiple pollutants through microbial fuel cells
摘要
Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are a new system that generates electricity and treats wastewater. The scientific community is interested in its applications; however, electron generation and transportation are key concerns. Thus, this research compares and studies common materials, which have never been widely investigated. The anode electrode is simple graphite (GE), mild steel (ME), and stainless steel (SE) to increase the transportation of electrons. Nypa fruticans Wurmb (Nira sap) is used as an easily available and highly beneficial organic substrate for bacterial populations. According to electrochemical tests, the GE offered 1.07 mW/m2 power density (PD), while the ME and SE delivered 2.75 mW/m2 and 5.85 mW/m2 within the first 35 days, respectively. The findings demonstrated that the SE anode had the highest specific capacitance values of 5.25 × 10−2 F/g, while the GE anode and ME anode had Cp values of 4.41 × 10−2 F/g, and 3.36 × 10−2 F/g, respectively. Bisphenol A (BPA) removal efficiency was maximum on the 65th day, with 96.25% for the SE anode, 94.55% for the ME, and 81.08% for the GE, while Pb2+ removal efficiency was 97.35% in the SE, 96.65% in the ME, and 96.60% in the GE. Bacillus sp. dominated all anodes during bacterial identification due to the same inoculation source. A comprehensive discussion of mechanisms is enclosed with future research directions.