Effect of Multiwall Carbon Nanotube contained in the Exfoliated Graphite anode on the power production and internal resistance of microbial fuel cells

Abstract

We fabricated Exfoliated Graphite (EG) anodes that are modified with different amounts of Multiwall Carbon Nanotube (MWCNT), and the effect of the MWCNT amount contained in the anode on the performance of Microbial Fuel Cells (MFCs) is examined. The MWCNT mixed with EG wraps the surface of EG planes consisting of the anode, and it enhances the electrochemical activities of the anode. The MWCNT on the anode surface catalyzes extracellular electron transfer to the anode, and it increases electrical conductivity of the anode by bridging the EG planes. The maximum power density of the MFC is increased with the increasing amount of the MWCNT in the EG anode. The power density of MFC with EG anode containing the MWCNT of 67% was 1,444 mW/m2, which is 140% higher than that of the control. The composite anode of EG and MWCNT is recommended as a good alternative for high performance MFCs.