Simultaneous Chromium Removal and Power Generation Using Algal Biomass in a Dual Chambered Salt Bridge Microbial Fuel Cell

Abstract

Microbial Fuel Cell (MFC) is a bio-electrochemical device used essentially for power generation and is now emerging as a sustainable waste treatment system. In this paper, we report detoxification of chromium VI contaminated water using algae biomass in a dual chamber salt bridge MFC. The device showed high chromium removal efficiency with 98% removal achieved in 96 h at pH 2. Initial pH of the cathode solution had a significant effect on device performance with acidic pH values favouring high chromium removal, Open Circuit Potential (OCV), power density and anodic COD removal. The power density value of 207 mW/m 2 and open circuit potential of 760 mV was attained at pH 2. Algae biomass driven MFC thus, proved to be an efficient bioremediation device with good power production.