Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2026, 40(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2026040015 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2026
Abstract
Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) offer a promising pathway for treating wastewater while simultaneously generating electricity; however, they remain largely pilot-scale technology due to persistent limitations, such as low power density. Microalgae can act as in situ oxygen suppliers in the cathode chamber of
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Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) offer a promising pathway for treating wastewater while simultaneously generating electricity; however, they remain largely pilot-scale technology due to persistent limitations, such as low power density. Microalgae can act as in situ oxygen suppliers in the cathode chamber of dual chamber MFCs, enhancing electricity generation while facilitating nutrient removal. This study compares the performance of cathodic microalgae in MFCs utilizing either a cation exchange membrane (CEM) or an anion exchange membrane (AEM). Raw municipal wastewater collected from the preliminary tank was used as the anodic substrate, while pre-cultivated Chlorella vulgaris (optical density ≈ 0.42) was introduced into the cathode chambers. The performance of both configurations was constantly monitored through various analytical methods. The AEM-based MFC produced significantly higher and more stable voltages (avg. 0.05 volts; peak ≈ 0.11 volts) and achieved a 0.95 mW/m2 peak power density, compared to the CEM-based MFC, which produced lower voltages (avg. 0.01 volts; peak ≈ 0.06 volts) and achieved a 0.25 mW/m2 peak power density. No significant differences in nutrient removal rates were found among the membranes. Findings demonstrate the superiority of AEM configurations for microalgae-assisted MFCs, establishing a more viable framework for potential large-scale wastewater treatment applications.
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(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 9th International Electronic Conference on Water Sciences)
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