Using cathode spacers to minimize reactor size in air cathode microbial fuel cells

Bioresource Technology
Qiao YangBruce E Logan

Abstract

Scaling up microbial fuel cells (MFCs) will require more compact reactor designs. Spacers can be used to minimize the reactor size without adversely affecting performance. A single 1.5mm expanded plastic spacer (S1.5) produced a maximum power density (973±26mWm(-2)) that was similar to that of an MFC with the cathode exposed directly to air (no spacer). However, a very thin spacer (1.3mm) reduced power by 33%. Completely covering the air cathode with a solid plate did not eliminate power generation, indicating oxygen leakage into the reactor. The S1.5 spacer slightly increased columbic efficiencies (from 20% to 24%) as a result of reduced oxygen transfer into the system. Based on operating conditions (1000Ω, CE=20%), it was estimated that 0.9Lh(-1) of air would be needed for 1m(2) of cathode area suggesting active air flow may be needed for larger scale MFCs.

References

Apr 29, 2004·Environmental Science & Technology·Hong LiuBruce E Logan
Nov 19, 2005·Water Research·Booki MinBruce E Logan
Sep 27, 2006·Environmental Science & Technology·Bruce E LoganKorneel Rabaey
Feb 5, 2008·Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology·Yujie FengHe Lee
Jul 16, 2008·Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology·Liping Huang, Bruce E Logan
Jun 2, 2009·Water Research·Mirella Di LorenzoKeith Scott
Jun 24, 2009·Environmental Science & Technology·Shaoan ChengBruce E Logan
Oct 8, 2009·Environmental Science & Technology·Xiaoxin CaoBruce E Logan
Dec 1, 2009·Environmental Science & Technology·Arjan DekkerCees J N Buisman
Nov 17, 2010·Environmental Science & Technology·Maha MehannaBruce E Logan
Feb 10, 2011·Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology·Roland D CusickBruce E Logan
Jun 8, 2011·Environmental Science & Technology·Younggy Kim, Bruce E Logan

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Citations

Feb 22, 2012·Applied and Environmental Microbiology·Youpeng QuBruce E Logan
May 23, 2012·Applied and Environmental Microbiology·John M PisciottaBruce E Logan
Mar 17, 2015·Water Research·Arun Subramani, Joseph G Jacangelo
Oct 22, 2018·Water Research·Ruggero RossiBruce E Logan

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