High capacitive rGO/WO3 supported nanofibers as cathode catalyst to boost-up the CO2 sequestration via microbial electrosynthesis

Abstract

Highly conductive reduced graphene oxide/ tungsten oxide (rGO/WO3) nanofibrous-modified carbon cloth (CC) based cathode was fabricated for electroreduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) through microbial electrosynthesis (MES). The modified rGO/WO3 nanofibrous functionalized cathode showed improved performance in terms of volumetric acetate production, which was 41% higher than the unmodified electrode. The alteration of the cathode also helped to reduce the resistance to flow the electron and increased the MES coulombic efficiencies. Adhesion of bacterial community on the electrode surface was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The electrochemical analysis results suggested the role of nanocomposite in improving the electrical charge holding capacity by enhancing capacitance. Based on higher biocompatibility, permeability, and electrode conductivity, the modified cathode allows a more attractive approach for bioprocess applications.