A novel MXene coated liquid crystal display anode derived from a futile computer monitor for microbial fuel cell application

Abstract

A Ti3C2Tx MXene nanosheet-coated liquid crystal display (LCD) anode is meticulously crafted through precision waterjet cutting, salvaging a discarded LCD monitor. This technique, preserving structural integrity and enhanced electrical conductivity, sets it apart from conventional methods. The resulting MXene-coated LCD anode is well-suited for microbial fuel cell (MFC) applications. Comparative assessments against costlier carbonaceous electrodes like graphite felt and carbon cloth, emphasize that the water-jet cut LCD anode with Ti3C2Tx MXene coating is 3.79 and 2.51 times more cost-effective, with an approximate total cost of $38/m2. Substituting Ti3C2Tx MXene-coated LCD for carbon cloth and graphite felt anodes reduces MFC unit fabrication costs by 19 and 10.45 %, respectively. Notably, the Ti3C2Tx MXene LCD anode-based MFC unit boasts a power density per unit cost of 0.008 W/m2/$, underscoring economic viability. This research highlights waterjet cutting's pivotal role in crafting Ti3C2Tx MXene LCD anodes, opening avenues for scalable, cost-effective electrode production in renewable energy applications.