Microbial Fuel Cells: It′s Applications

Abstract

: Microbial fuel cell (MFCs) uses bacteria to convert organic waste material or chemical energy into electrical energy. These technologies represent various multi-disciplinary approaches for alternate source of energy. By the use of bacteria MFCs turn the energy stored in chemical bonds into the electric current that can use without the need for combustion. The basic working principle of MFCs is based on tenets microbial physiology which is coupled with electrochemistry. The structural design of MFCs consists of components such as cathode, electrolyte, and anode. Electricigens such as Geobacter species are able to oxidize organic matter to CO ₂ . By the use of MFCs electricity is generated by treating urban waste water. MFCs have various practical applications such as waste water treatment, hydrogen production, bioremediation, environmental biosensors etc.