Abstract
Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) have gained attention as a source of renewable energy because of their ability to directly convert chemical potential into electrical potential. While the fundamental mechanisms of MFCs have been explored, there are still gaps in understanding the correlation of biofilm formation to voltage and current response using polymeric electrode materials. This work investigated the relationship between microbial-surface adhesion and the kinetics of electron transfer. Utilizing the biofilm-surface interfacial properties studied via atomic force microscopy (AFM), nanocomposite materials were synthesized to increase the electrical output in the MFC. Additionally, open circuit potential (OCP) of the anode compartment was measured to determine an optimal system of electron generation which was then implemented in a dual chambered MFC reactor. The cellulose based-electrodes impacted Escherichia coli (E. coli) adsorption while increasing conductivity when compared to standard carbon cloth materials. Initial results have indicated that electrodes functionalized with an additional fuel source increased the rate of adsorption, impacting the overall electron generation. Future work aims to synthesize a regenerative composite electrode material for increased voltage response and MFC efficiency.
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