Evolution and Perspectives in the Application of Microbial Fuel Cells for Bioremediation of Oil-Contaminated Soils: A Bibliometric Approach

The document examines the evolution and future prospects of microbial fuel cells (MFCs) for the bioremediation of petroleum-contaminated soils using a bibliometric approach. Through the analysis of scientific publications, emerging trends, key collaborations, and the impact of these technologies on environmental decontamination are identified. A significant increase in academic output since 2015 highlights the growing interest in optimizing these bioelectrochemical systems. Research has demonstrated that microbial fuel cells not only degrade hydrocarbons but also generate bioelectricity as a byproduct, positioning them as a sustainable solution for restoring contaminated ecosystems. Their efficiency can be enhanced through artificial intelligence, electrode optimization, and the selection of adapted microorganisms. Key bacterial strains such as Pseudomonas and Burkholderia, known for their high potential in degrading polyaromatic hydrocarbons, were identified. The study reveals that China and the United States lead scientific production in this field, with institutions like Peking University and the University of California, Berkeley making significant contributions. Bibliometric analysis has mapped collaboration networks and identified opportunities for innovation, fostering the integration of MFCs with complementary technologies such as phytoremediation. This analysis provides crucial insights for the development of more efficient environmental remediation strategies, solidifying microbial fuel cells as a key tool in managing petroleum-contaminated soils and advancing their global implementation.