Review on Microphotosynthetic Power Cells—A Low‐Power Energy‐Harvesting Bioelectrochemical Cell: From Fundamentals to Applications

Abstract

Biophotoelectrochemical cells are gaining prominence in recent years due to the necessity of sustainable power generation at both micro‐ and macroscale. Toward this direction, microphotosynthetic power cells (μ‐PSC) play a vital role in generating clean energy. The μ‐PSC generates sustainable power under light and in the dark through the photosynthesis and respiration of photosynthetic microorganisms or cells, such as cyanobacteria and green algae. Herein, particulars on μ‐PSCs from fundamentals to real‐time applications are provided. The state of the art of μ‐PSCs, in terms of the principle of operation, design, and materials is presented. μ‐PSCs reported to date are classified based on design, operating parameters, and photosynthetic organisms. In addition, details on the metrics and factors influencing the performance of μ‐PSCs are also discussed. The need for the development of mathematical and electrical equivalent models of μ‐PSCs and the progress in these areas are briefed. Current challenges for μ‐PSCs’ commercialization are identified as high cost and low power densities, and the factors that are leading to low power density and high cost are explored and are also discussed. In addition, the potential solutions to overcome these challenges are investigated.