MnO2@MXene/Carbon Cloth as an Anode for Microbial Fuel Cells

Abstract

AbstractHydrophobicity of carbon‐based anodes hinders bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation. Herein, MnO2@MXene coated carbon cloth (CC) was designed as an anode for microbial fuel cells (MFCs). The anode integrated the hydrophilicity and conductivity of MXene with the biocompatibility of MnO2. This unique structure promoted bacterial colonisation and biofilm formation on the anode surface. MnO2@MXene enhanced electricity generation performance and wastewater degradation efficiency owing to the synergistic effect of MXene and MnO2. The MFC achieved a short startup time and an effective extracellular electron transfer process. The MnO2@MXene/CC anode ensured a higher power density and efficient decolourisation in MFCs. The MFC device achieved a high maximum power density of 746.3 mW/m2 and a Congo red decolourisation efficiency of 87.6 % at 48 h. This work offers a potential strategy for the effective degradation of wastewater and recovery of electrical energy.