Microbial Fuel Cells: Bifunctionalized Approach for Wastewater Treatment and Energy Recovery Innovation

Conventional wastewater treatment processes, being significant energy consumers, are not sufficiently adapted to the ongoing energy challenges. In this context, the use of electroactive microorganisms in bioelectrochemical systems has grown, primarily focusing on microbial fuel cell technology. Microbial fuel cells, exploiting the electrogenic properties of specific bacteria, provide a sustainable solution by concurrently treating wastewater and generating electric power in treatment plants. This technology transforms wastewater treatment plants into potential net energy producers through the oxidation of organic matter and bioelectricity generation by microorganisms. This chapter thoroughly describes microbial fuel cells, encompassing its various types and essential operational factors influencing its efficiency in wastewater treatment and bioelectricity generation. Recent advancements and breakthroughs in addressing diverse wastewater types are explored alongside analysing associated challenges and their prospects. This chapter objectively assesses the challenges of energy deficiency and high expenditure in microbial fuel cells for wastewater treatment. It explores microbial fuel cell applications and proposes integration with other treatment processes to enhance the practicality and effectiveness of contaminant removal on a larger scale. The aim is to provide valuable insights for overcoming limitations and promoting microbial fuel cell integration in comprehensive wastewater treatment strategies.