Proposal for a practical MFC using vertical electrodes with improved air cathode function

Abstract

In this study, we proposed a low-cost vertical electrode MFC device using Bokuju and smoked charcoal and evaluated its air cathode function by varying the cathode area. The vertical design of the device ensures contact between the cathode electrode and the air, easing the installation of the device and the replacement of the electrode. The output increase was also confirmed by the cathode, accompanied by the sterilizing effect of copper and reliable contact with air. Unfortunately, there was a slight improvement in air cathode function even when the area of the cathode exposed to air was wider than 100 mm2. However, when the device was inserted into a new soil of the same material after the first operation, the power density reached the same level as the first time. Thus, this device is nearing practical application by improving its long-term stability and increasing output power.