Microbial fuel Cell-based Co-generation system for bioethanol production and power management solution

Abstract

A Stacked Microbial Fuel Cell set-up using wheat straw hydrolysate as substrate is suitable for simultaneous ethanol production and power management solution. The system's performance is demonstrated by charging a standard 1.2 V and 3.7 V battery with three modules. The running time for ethanol production and the battery charging profiles of the microbial fuel cell is 300 min. It produces a maximum ethanol of 0.14 % (w/v) along with battery charging from 1.09 to 1.17 V, similarly, 0.12 % (w/v) of ethanol production along with battery charging from 3.50 to 3.57 V in 300 min. Additionally, a mathematical model estimates the possible production of ethanol and Open Circuit Voltage. Thus, the system may be further explored for possible industrial applications towards future energy sustainability by producing clean electricity and bioethanol on a large scale.