Material for Microbial Electrolysis Cell: Design to Reactor Configuration

Microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) are potential for wastewater management and renewable energy generation. This chapter discusses MEC materials and reactor architecture. While detoxifying effluent, MECs transform organic materials into hydrogen gas or energy using electrochemically active microorganisms. Performance, efficiency, and durability of microbial electrolytic cells depend on material selection. Proton exchange membranes, reactor designs, and anode and cathode materials are critical. Conductive anodes like carbon cloth or graphite help exo-electrogenic bacteria oxidize organic molecules. Cathode materials, usually platinum or other noble metals, allow proton reduction, generating hydrogen gas or other compounds. Proton exchange membranes separate anode and cathode compartments, allowing ion transfer while inhibiting vapor or substrate exchange. Microbial electrolysis cells vary in design dependent on goals. Single-chambered electrode assemblies are simple and inexpensive. Dual-chamber membrane electrode assemblies reduce gas crossing and increase efficiency by separating the anode and cathode compartments. This chapter emphasizes material selection and reactor design in microbial electrolysis cells for bio-hydrogen production and wastewater treatment. To optimize microbial electrolysis cells for sustainable energy generation and environmental cleanup, one must understand how materials and configurations affect performance. To improve efficiency and versatility of microbial electrolysis cell technology, future research should focus on innovative materials and reactor topologies.