Recent advances in bioelectricity generation through the simultaneous valorization of lignocellulosic biomass and wastewater treatment in microbial fuel cell

Abstract

The emergence of renewable energy technologies offers a significant advantage in the conversion of organic wastes to bioenergy. Lignocellulosic biomass (LCB) is one of the most widely generated and abundant carbon-based sources and is believed to be a rich source of energy that can be utilized by microbial consortia in a microbial fuel cell (MFC) to generate electricity. Different LCBs like, raw corn stover, rice milling, plant waste, wheat straw, etc. have been utilized in MFCs to produce a substantial amount of electric current. The MFC technology has showcased its ability in the simultaneous treatment of wastewater and converting different organic wastes including LCB into electricity. However, LCBs are known to be very complex in terms of their biodegradability within MFC, therefore, several pre-treatment and extraction techniques have been employed for efficient utilization by microorganisms. The present review article is focused on advancement in bioelectricity generation through MFC by utilizing different lignocellulosic wastes as feedstock, and integrating the treatment of wastewater, thereby creating a hygienic and pollutant-free environment. Moreover, various patents involving lignocellulosic biomass as MFC substrate has been described along with genetic measures for improving the MFC performance has also been illustrated.