Facile and Scalable Synthesis of Vertically Oriented TiS2 Nanosheets for Green Energy Harvesting in Microfluidic Microbial Fuel Cells

Abstract

Employing inexpensive and achievable nanomaterials in energy devices is essential due to the demands for miniaturization and high storage capacity. Addressing the challenge of large-scale synthesis and introducing new affordable materials with promising charge acquisition and retention capabilities can significantly advance energy generation technologies. Here, we introduce vertically aligned 2D nanosheets of titanium disulfide (TiS₂) as a new material for anode electrodes in microbial fuel cells (MFCs). We present a novel, scalable, and facile synthesis method that utilizes a sacrificial titanium layer in a chemical vapor deposition-based approach, facilitating the large-area vertical growth of TiS₂ nanosheets without the use of hazardous precursors. The semimetallic properties of these nanosheets, combined with their distinctive 3D configuration, enhance both bacterial colonization and electron transfer efficiency. The performance of TiS₂ nanosheets was evaluated in a microfluidic-based MFC system with Escherichia coli as the microorganism. Comprehensive assessments, including polarization curves and cell potential measurements, demonstrate a peak power density of 169.4 W m^–3 and a current density of 1270 A m^–3 under optimal conditions. The 3D electrode, featuring TiS₂ nanosheets, maintains robust power generation at high current densities, highlighting its effective electrode–electrolyte interaction and charge transfer facilitation.