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Salar-García MJ, Ortiz-Martínez VM, Sánchez-Segado S, Valero Sánchez R, Sáez López A, Lozano Blanco LJ, Godínez-Seoane C. Sustainable Production of Biofuels and Biochemicals via Electro-Fermentation Technology. Molecules 2024; 29:834. [PMID: 38398584 PMCID: PMC10891623 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29040834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The energy crisis and climate change are two of the most concerning issues for human beings nowadays. For that reason, the scientific community is focused on the search for alternative biofuels to conventional fossil fuels as well as the development of sustainable processes to develop a circular economy. Bioelectrochemical processes have been demonstrated to be useful for producing bioenergy and value-added products from several types of waste. Electro-fermentation has gained great attention in the last few years due to its potential contribution to biofuel and biochemical production, e.g., hydrogen, methane, biopolymers, etc. Conventional fermentation processes pose several limitations in terms of their practical and economic feasibility. The introduction of two electrodes in a bioreactor allows the regulation of redox instabilities that occur in conventional fermentation, boosting the overall process towards a high biomass yield and enhanced product formation. In this regard, key parameters such as the type of culture, the nature of the electrodes as well as the operating conditions are crucial in order to maximize the production of biofuels and biochemicals via electro-fermentation technology. This article comprises a critical overview of the benefits and limitations of this emerging bio-electrochemical technology and its contribution to the circular economy.
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Affiliation(s)
- María José Salar-García
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena (UPCT), Campus Alfonso XIII, Aulario C, 30203 Cartagena, Spain;
| | - Víctor Manuel Ortiz-Martínez
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena (UPCT), Campus Muralla del Mar, 30202 Cartagena, Spain; (S.S.-S.); (A.S.L.); (L.J.L.B.); (C.G.-S.)
| | - Sergio Sánchez-Segado
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena (UPCT), Campus Muralla del Mar, 30202 Cartagena, Spain; (S.S.-S.); (A.S.L.); (L.J.L.B.); (C.G.-S.)
| | - Raúl Valero Sánchez
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena (UPCT), Campus Alfonso XIII, Aulario C, 30203 Cartagena, Spain;
| | - Antonia Sáez López
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena (UPCT), Campus Muralla del Mar, 30202 Cartagena, Spain; (S.S.-S.); (A.S.L.); (L.J.L.B.); (C.G.-S.)
| | - Luis Javier Lozano Blanco
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena (UPCT), Campus Muralla del Mar, 30202 Cartagena, Spain; (S.S.-S.); (A.S.L.); (L.J.L.B.); (C.G.-S.)
| | - Carlos Godínez-Seoane
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena (UPCT), Campus Muralla del Mar, 30202 Cartagena, Spain; (S.S.-S.); (A.S.L.); (L.J.L.B.); (C.G.-S.)
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Li Y, Wang S, Dong R, Li X. A large cathode surface area promotes electromethanogenesis at a proper external voltage in a single coaxial microbial electrolysis cell. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 868:161721. [PMID: 36682571 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.161721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Microbial electrolysis cell coupled with anaerobic digestion (MEC-AD) is currently encountering constraints on electromethanogenesis. The electrode configuration modification can be a simple yet efficient way to improve electromethanogenesis. This study evaluated two coaxial electrode configurations (large anode and small cathode: A10C1; small anode and large cathode: A1C10) using carbon felt as the electrode material. At an external voltage of 1.7 V, CH4 content was found exclusively higher in A1C10 (11 % and 13 % higher for acetate-fed and cow manure-fed, respectively) than that of the control reactors. Consequently, CH4 production was 13 % and 29 % higher in acetate-fed and CM-fed A1C10, respectively. The strengthened electromethanogenesis was attributed to the enrichment of interspecies hydrogen transfer microbes (i.e., Mesotoga and Bathyarchaeia). The coaxial configuration with a large cathode surface area demonstrated a viable stereotype in MEC-AD for improved waste treatment and energy recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Li
- College of Engineering, China Agricultural University (Key laboratory for clean renewable energy utilization technology, Ministry of Agriculture), Beijing 100083, People's Republic of China
| | - Siqi Wang
- College of Engineering, China Agricultural University (Key laboratory for clean renewable energy utilization technology, Ministry of Agriculture), Beijing 100083, People's Republic of China
| | - Renjie Dong
- College of Engineering, China Agricultural University (Key laboratory for clean renewable energy utilization technology, Ministry of Agriculture), Beijing 100083, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Li
- College of Engineering, China Agricultural University (Key laboratory for clean renewable energy utilization technology, Ministry of Agriculture), Beijing 100083, People's Republic of China.
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de Azevedo CG, Dos Santos RJ, Hiranobe CT, Zanette AF, Job AE, Silva MJ. The invasive Egeria densa macrophyte and its potential as a new renewable energy source: A study of degradation kinetics and thermodynamic parameters. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 856:158979. [PMID: 36179837 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The increase in global demand, along with environmental concerns, has led to the need for new sources that can supply the energy needed for socioeconomic development while reducing pollutant emissions. Aquatic biomasses, especially those of invasive aquatic macrophytes, can be potential energy sources, and this study evaluated the thermal degradation of the invasive Egeria densa macrophytes (EDM) in an inert environment at four heating rates to evaluate its potential as a low-cost biomass and bioenergy source. Pyrolysis experiments were performed using a thermogravimetric analyzer. The thermal profile of invasive EDM has three main events (multiple stages). Stages (i) and (ii) occur at a temperature range of 125-395 °C and represent the decomposition of carbohydrates such as hemicellulose and cellulose. Stage (iii) occurs between 395 and 500 °C and mainly relates to the decomposition of lignin. Thermal data have been used to analyze kinetic parameters through isoconversional methods, and the activation energy (Ea) value of EDM showed variation at different conversion points. The highest Ea values were observed for conversion rates of 0.3-0.6 due to the increased energy required to break down the lignocellulosic chains during decomposition. The small difference between the enthalpy change and Ea values for the different isoconversional methods can be due to a small potential energy barrier, which reflects the feasibility that the reaction can occur under the expected conditions. Gibbs free energy (137-145 kJ mol-1) and high heating value (13.40 MJ/kg) revealed a significant bioenergy potential for EDM biomass.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Gonçalves de Azevedo
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Faculty of Engineering and Science, Department of Energy Engineering, Rosana, São Paulo 19274-000, Brazil.
| | - Renivaldo José Dos Santos
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Faculty of Engineering and Science, Department of Energy Engineering, Rosana, São Paulo 19274-000, Brazil
| | - Carlos Toshiyuki Hiranobe
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Faculty of Engineering and Science, Department of Energy Engineering, Rosana, São Paulo 19274-000, Brazil
| | - Andréia Fátima Zanette
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Faculty of Engineering and Science, Department of Energy Engineering, Rosana, São Paulo 19274-000, Brazil
| | - Aldo Eloizo Job
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Physics, Presidente Prudente, São Paulo 19060-900, Brazil
| | - Michael Jones Silva
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Faculty of Engineering and Science, Department of Energy Engineering, Rosana, São Paulo 19274-000, Brazil.
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Zhi Z, Pan Y, Lu X, Wang J, Zhen G. Bioelectrochemical regulation accelerates biomethane production from waste activated sludge: Focusing on operational performance and microbial community. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 814:152736. [PMID: 34974012 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.152736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Bioelectrochemical regulation represents a newly emerging strategy to enhance anaerobic digestion (AD) of biowastes. Herein, a novel microbial electrolysis cell (MEC) system, equipped with a pair of carbon brush anode and hybrid Ti/RuO2-graphite felt cathode, was developed to explore the role of bioelectrochemical regulation in the proliferation/enrichment of functional microbes and methanation of waste activated sludge. The methane production was significantly improved by applying bioelectrochemical regulation. The maximum methane yield was 16.4 mL/L-reactor at the applied external voltage 1.2 V and solids retention time 15 d, 8.6-time higher than that of a single AD. Further analysis demonstrated that bioelectrochemical regulation selectively enriched electroactive fermentative partners and methanogens (especially Thermincola, Methanobacterium) in the MEC-AD system and built up a robust syntrophic interaction. This drove the decomposition of complex organics and concurrent bioelectroreduction of CO2 in biogas and subsequently enhanced methane generation. Besides, bioelectrochemical simulation attenuated N2O emissions and enhanced the dewaterability of digested sludge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongxiang Zhi
- Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, PR China; Shanghai Municipal Engineering Design Institute (Group) Co., Ltd, Shanghai 200092, PR China
| | - Yang Pan
- Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, PR China; Nanjing Innovation Center for Environmental Protection Industry Co. Ltd., Nanjing 211106, PR China
| | - Xueqin Lu
- Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, PR China; Institute of Eco-Chongming (IEC), 3663 N. Zhongshan Rd., Shanghai 200062, PR China
| | - Jianhui Wang
- Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, PR China
| | - Guangyin Zhen
- Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, PR China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, 1515 North Zhongshan Rd. (No. 2), Shanghai 200092, PR China; Technology Innovation Center for Land Spatial Eco-restoration in Metropolitan Area, Ministry of Natural Resources, 3663 N. Zhongshan Road, Shanghai 200062, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biotransformation of Organic Solid Waste, Shanghai 200241, PR China.
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Meta-analysis of bioenergy recovery and anaerobic digestion in integrated systems of anaerobic digestion and microbial electrolysis cell. Biochem Eng J 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bej.2021.108301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Chandrasekhar K, Naresh Kumar A, Kumar G, Kim DH, Song YC, Kim SH. Electro-fermentation for biofuels and biochemicals production: Current status and future directions. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2021; 323:124598. [PMID: 33401164 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2020.124598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Electro-fermentation is an emerging bioporcess that could regulate the metabolism of electrochemically active microorganisms. The provision of electrodes for the fermentation process that functions as an electron acceptor and supports the formation and transportation of electrons and protons, consequently producing bioelectricity and value-added chemicals. The traditional method of fermentation has several limitations in usability and economic feasibility. Subsequently, a series of metabolic processes occurring in conventional fermentation processes are most often redox misaligned. In this regard, electro-fermentation emerged as a hybrid technology which can regulate a series of metabolic processes occurring in a bioreactor by regulating the redox instabilities and boosting the overall metabolic process towards high biomass yield and enhanced product formation. The present article deals with microorganisms-electrode interactions, various types of electro-fermentation systems, comparative evaluation of pure and mixed culture electro-fermentation application, and value-added fuels and chemical synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Chandrasekhar
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - A Naresh Kumar
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Gopalakrishnan Kumar
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea; Institute of Chemistry, Bioscience and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Stavanger, 4036 Stavanger, Norway
| | - Dong-Hoon Kim
- Department of Civil Engineering, Inha University, 100 Inha-ro, Nam-gu, Incheon 22212, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Chae Song
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Korea Maritime and Ocean University, Busan 49112, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Hyoun Kim
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea.
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Abstract
Electro-fermentation (EF) is an upcoming technology that can control the metabolism of exoelectrogenic bacteria (i.e., bacteria that transfer electrons using an extracellular mechanism). The fermenter consists of electrodes that act as sink and source for the production and movement of electrons and protons, thus generating electricity and producing valuable products. The conventional process of fermentation has several drawbacks that restrict their application and economic viability. Additionally, metabolic reactions taking place in traditional fermenters are often redox imbalanced. Almost all metabolic pathways and microbial strains have been studied, and EF can electrochemically control this. The process of EF can be used to optimize metabolic processes taking place in the fermenter by controlling the redox and pH imbalances and by stimulating carbon chain elongation or breakdown to improve the overall biomass yield and support the production of a specific product. This review briefly discusses microbe-electrode interactions, electro-fermenter designs, mixed-culture EF, and pure culture EF in industrial applications, electro methanogenesis, and the various products that could be hence generated using this process.
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Zhi Z, Pan Y, Lu X, Zhen G, Zhao Y, Zhu X, Xiong J, Zhao T. Electrically regulating co-fermentation of sewage sludge and food waste towards promoting biomethane production and mass reduction. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2019; 279:218-227. [PMID: 30735931 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2019.01.142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2018] [Revised: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Microbial electrolysis cell (MEC) was integrated into conventional anaerobic digestion (AD) system (i.e. MEC-AD) to electrochemically regulate the co-fermentation of food waste (FW) and sewage sludge (SS). Two anaerobic systems (i.e. MEC-AD, and single AD) were operated in parallel to explore the potential stimulation of electrical regulation in metabolic behaviors of FW and SS and subsequent biomethane production. The highest accumulative methane yield was achieved at an applied voltage of 0.4 V and the FW and SS ratio of 0.2:0.8, increasing by 2.8-fold than those in AD. The combined MEC-AD system mitigated N2O emission and considerably improved ammonia removal and the dewaterability of digestate, in contrast to AD. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) visualized the presence of a large number of rod-like and cocci-like electroactive microbes on the electrode surface. Electrical regulation stimulated the self-growth and proliferation of typical Methanobacterium and Methanosaeta, accordingly contributing to biomethane production greatly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongxiang Zhi
- Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, PR China
| | - Yang Pan
- Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, PR China
| | - Xueqin Lu
- Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, PR China; Institute of Eco-Chongming (IEC), 3663 N. Zhongshan Rd., Shanghai 200062, PR China
| | - Guangyin Zhen
- Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, PR China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, 1515 North Zhongshan Rd. (No. 2), Shanghai 200092, PR China.
| | - Youcai Zhao
- The State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, 200092 Shanghai, PR China
| | - Xuefeng Zhu
- School of Environmental and Material Engineering, Shanghai Second Polytechnic University, Shanghai 201209, PR China
| | - Jianying Xiong
- Shanghai Municipal Engineering Design Institute (Group) Co., Ltd, Shanghai 200092, PR China
| | - Tianbiao Zhao
- Shanghai Waterway Engineering Design and Consulting Co., Ltd, Shanghai 200120, PR China
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Watanabe K, Koyama M, Ueda J, Ban S, Kurosawa N, Toda T. Effect of operating temperature on anaerobic digestion of the Brazilian waterweed Egeria densa and its microbial community. Anaerobe 2017; 47:8-17. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anaerobe.2017.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2016] [Revised: 03/14/2017] [Accepted: 03/15/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Zhen G, Lu X, Kobayashi T, Su L, Kumar G, Bakonyi P, He Y, Sivagurunathan P, Nemestóthy N, Xu K, Zhao Y. Continuous micro-current stimulation to upgrade methanolic wastewater biodegradation and biomethane recovery in an upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactor. CHEMOSPHERE 2017; 180:229-238. [PMID: 28410503 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2017.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2016] [Revised: 03/31/2017] [Accepted: 04/02/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The dispersion of granules in upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactor represents a critical technical issue in methanolic wastewater treatment. In this study, the potentials of coupling a microbial electrolysis cell (MEC) into an UASB reactor for improving methanolic wastewater biodegradation, long-term process stability and biomethane recovery were evaluated. The results indicated that coupling a MEC system was capable of improving the overall performance of UASB reactor for methanolic wastewater treatment. The combined system maintained the comparatively higher methane yield and COD removal efficiency over the single UASB process through the entire process, with the methane production at the steady-state conditions approaching 1504.7 ± 92.2 mL-CH4 L-1-reactor d-1, around 10.1% higher than the control UASB (i.e. 1366.4 ± 71.0 mL-CH4 L-1-reactor d-1). The further characterizations verified that the input of external power source could stimulate the metabolic activity of microbes and reinforced the EPS secretion. The produced EPS interacted with Fe2+/3+ liberated during anodic corrosion of iron electrode to create a gel-like three-dimensional [-Fe-EPS-]n matrix, which promoted cell-cell cohesion and maintained the structural integrity of granules. Further observations via SEM and FISH analysis demonstrated that the use of bioelectrochemical stimulation promoted the growth and proliferation of microorganisms, which diversified the degradation routes of methanol, convert the wasted CO2 into methane and accordingly increased the process stability and methane productivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangyin Zhen
- Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Rd. 500, Shanghai, 200241, PR China; Center for Material Cycles and Waste Management Research, National Institute for Environmental Studies, 16-2 Onogawa, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8506, Japan.
| | - Xueqin Lu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8579, Japan.
| | - Takuro Kobayashi
- Center for Material Cycles and Waste Management Research, National Institute for Environmental Studies, 16-2 Onogawa, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8506, Japan
| | - Lianghu Su
- Nanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences of the Ministry of Environmental Protection, 210042, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Gopalakrishnan Kumar
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Daegu University, Jillyang, Gyeongsan, Gyeongbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Péter Bakonyi
- Research Institute on Bioengineering, Membrane Technology and Energetics, University of Pannonia, Egyetem ut 10, 8200, Veszprém, Hungary
| | - Yan He
- Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Rd. 500, Shanghai, 200241, PR China
| | - Periyasamy Sivagurunathan
- Center for Material Cycles and Waste Management Research, National Institute for Environmental Studies, 16-2 Onogawa, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8506, Japan
| | - Nándor Nemestóthy
- Research Institute on Bioengineering, Membrane Technology and Energetics, University of Pannonia, Egyetem ut 10, 8200, Veszprém, Hungary
| | - Kaiqin Xu
- Center for Material Cycles and Waste Management Research, National Institute for Environmental Studies, 16-2 Onogawa, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8506, Japan.
| | - Youcai Zhao
- The State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, PR China
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Rivera I, Bakonyi P, Cuautle-Marín MA, Buitrón G. Evaluation of various cheese whey treatment scenarios in single-chamber microbial electrolysis cells for improved biohydrogen production. CHEMOSPHERE 2017; 174:253-259. [PMID: 28171841 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2017.01.128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2016] [Revised: 01/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/25/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
In this study single-chamber microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) were applied to treat cheese whey (CW), an industrial by-product, and recover H2 gas. Firstly, this substrate was fed directly to the MEC to get the initial feedback about its H2 generation potential. The results indicated that the direct application of CW requires an adequate pH control to realize bioelectrohydrogenesis and avoid operational failure due to the loss of bioanode activity. In the second part of the study, the effluents of anaerobic (methanogenic) digester and hydrogenogenic (dark fermentative H2-producing) reactor utilizing the CW were tested in the MEC process (representing the concept of a two-stage technology). It turned out that the residue of the methanogenic reactor - with its relatively lower carbohydrate- and higher volatile fatty acid contents - was more suitable to produce hydrogen bioelectrochemically. The MEC operated with the dark fermentation effluent, containing a high portion of carbohydrates and low amount of organic acids, produced significant amount of undesired methane simultaneously with H2. Overall, the best MEC behavior was attained using the effluent of the methanogenic reactor and therefore, considering a two-stage system, methanogenesis is an advisable pretreatment step for the acidic CW to enhance the H2 formation in complementary microbial electrohydrogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaac Rivera
- Laboratory for Research on Advanced Processes for Water Treatment, Instituto de Ingeniería, Unidad Académica Juriquilla, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Blvd. Juriquilla 3001, Querétaro 76230, Mexico
| | - Péter Bakonyi
- Research Institute on Bioengineering, Membrane Technology and Energetics, University of Pannonia, Egyetem ut 10, 8200 Veszprém, Hungary
| | - Manuel Alejandro Cuautle-Marín
- Laboratory for Research on Advanced Processes for Water Treatment, Instituto de Ingeniería, Unidad Académica Juriquilla, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Blvd. Juriquilla 3001, Querétaro 76230, Mexico
| | - Germán Buitrón
- Laboratory for Research on Advanced Processes for Water Treatment, Instituto de Ingeniería, Unidad Académica Juriquilla, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Blvd. Juriquilla 3001, Querétaro 76230, Mexico.
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Blasco-Gómez R, Batlle-Vilanova P, Villano M, Balaguer MD, Colprim J, Puig S. On the Edge of Research and Technological Application: A Critical Review of Electromethanogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:E874. [PMID: 28425974 PMCID: PMC5412455 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18040874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Revised: 03/22/2017] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The conversion of electrical current into methane (electromethanogenesis) by microbes represents one of the most promising applications of bioelectrochemical systems (BES). Electromethanogenesis provides a novel approach to waste treatment, carbon dioxide fixation and renewable energy storage into a chemically stable compound, such as methane. This has become an important area of research since it was first described, attracting different research groups worldwide. Basics of the process such as microorganisms involved and main reactions are now much better understood, and recent advances in BES configuration and electrode materials in lab-scale enhance the interest in this technology. However, there are still some gaps that need to be filled to move towards its application. Side reactions or scaling-up issues are clearly among the main challenges that need to be overcome to its further development. This review summarizes the recent advances made in the field of electromethanogenesis to address the main future challenges and opportunities of this novel process. In addition, the present fundamental knowledge is critically reviewed and some insights are provided to identify potential niche applications and help researchers to overcome current technological boundaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramiro Blasco-Gómez
- Laboratory of Chemical and Environmental Engineering (LEQUIA), Institute of the Environment, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, Carrer Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 69, E-17003 Girona, Spain.
| | - Pau Batlle-Vilanova
- Laboratory of Chemical and Environmental Engineering (LEQUIA), Institute of the Environment, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, Carrer Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 69, E-17003 Girona, Spain.
- Department of Innovation and Technology, FCC Aqualia, Balmes Street, 36, 6th Floor, 08007 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Marianna Villano
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Maria Dolors Balaguer
- Laboratory of Chemical and Environmental Engineering (LEQUIA), Institute of the Environment, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, Carrer Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 69, E-17003 Girona, Spain.
| | - Jesús Colprim
- Laboratory of Chemical and Environmental Engineering (LEQUIA), Institute of the Environment, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, Carrer Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 69, E-17003 Girona, Spain.
| | - Sebastià Puig
- Laboratory of Chemical and Environmental Engineering (LEQUIA), Institute of the Environment, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, Carrer Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 69, E-17003 Girona, Spain.
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Rózsenberszki T, Koók L, Bakonyi P, Nemestóthy N, Logroño W, Pérez M, Urquizo G, Recalde C, Kurdi R, Sarkady A. Municipal waste liquor treatment via bioelectrochemical and fermentation (H 2 + CH 4) processes: Assessment of various technological sequences. CHEMOSPHERE 2017; 171:692-701. [PMID: 28061427 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2016.12.114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2016] [Revised: 12/20/2016] [Accepted: 12/22/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
In this paper, the anaerobic treatment of a high organic-strength wastewater-type feedstock, referred as the liquid fraction of pressed municipal solid waste (LPW) was studied for energy recovery and organic matter removal. The processes investigated were (i) dark fermentation to produce biohydrogen, (ii) anaerobic digestion for biogas formation and (iii) microbial fuel cells for electrical energy generation. To find a feasible alternative for LPW treatment (meeting the two-fold aims given above), various one- as well as multi-stage processes were tested. The applications were evaluated based on their (i) COD removal efficiencies and (ii) specific energy gain. As a result, considering the former aspect, the single-stage processes could be ranked as: microbial fuel cell (92.4%)> anaerobic digestion (50.2%)> hydrogen fermentation (8.8%). From the latter standpoint, an order of hydrogen fermentation (2277 J g-1 CODremoved d-1)> anaerobic digestion (205 J g-1 CODremoved d-1)> microbial fuel cell (0.43 J g-1 CODremoved d-1) was attained. The assessment showed that combined, multi-step treatment was necessary to simultaneously achieve efficient organic matter removal and energy recovery from LPW. Therefore, a three-stage system (hydrogen fermentation-biomethanation-bioelectrochemical cell in sequence) was suggested. The different approaches were characterized via the estimation of COD balance, as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamás Rózsenberszki
- Research Institute on Bioengineering, Membrane Technology and Energetics, University of Pannonia, Egyetem ut 10, 8200, Veszprém, Hungary
| | - László Koók
- Research Institute on Bioengineering, Membrane Technology and Energetics, University of Pannonia, Egyetem ut 10, 8200, Veszprém, Hungary
| | - Péter Bakonyi
- Research Institute on Bioengineering, Membrane Technology and Energetics, University of Pannonia, Egyetem ut 10, 8200, Veszprém, Hungary.
| | - Nándor Nemestóthy
- Research Institute on Bioengineering, Membrane Technology and Energetics, University of Pannonia, Egyetem ut 10, 8200, Veszprém, Hungary
| | - Washington Logroño
- Centro de Investigación de Energías Alternativas y Ambiente, Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo, Chimborazo, Ecuador; Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Mario Pérez
- Centro de Investigación de Energías Alternativas y Ambiente, Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo, Chimborazo, Ecuador
| | - Gladys Urquizo
- Centro de Investigación de Energías Alternativas y Ambiente, Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo, Chimborazo, Ecuador
| | - Celso Recalde
- Centro de Investigación de Energías Alternativas y Ambiente, Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo, Chimborazo, Ecuador; Instituto de Ciencia, Innovación, Tecnología y Saberes, Universidad Nacional de Chimborazo, Riobamba, Ecuador
| | - Róbert Kurdi
- Institute of Environmental Engineering, University of Pannonia, Egyetem ut 10, 8200, Veszprém, Hungary
| | - Attila Sarkady
- Institute of Environmental Engineering, University of Pannonia, Egyetem ut 10, 8200, Veszprém, Hungary
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Li Y, Zhang Y, Liu Y, Zhao Z, Zhao Z, Liu S, Zhao H, Quan X. Enhancement of anaerobic methanogenesis at a short hydraulic retention time via bioelectrochemical enrichment of hydrogenotrophic methanogens. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2016; 218:505-511. [PMID: 27394997 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2016.06.112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2016] [Revised: 06/24/2016] [Accepted: 06/28/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Anaerobic digestion (AD) is an important energy strategy for converting organic waste to CH4. A major factor limiting the practical applicability of AD is the relatively long hydraulic retention time (HRT) which declines the treatment efficiency of digesters. A coupling process of anaerobic digestion and 'electromethanogenesis' was proposed to enhance anaerobic digestion at a short HRT in this study. Microorganisms analysis indicated that the electric-biological reactor enriched hydrogenotrophic methanogens in both cathodic biofilm and suspended sludge, helping achieve the high organic removal (71.0% vs 42.3% [control reactor]) and CH4 production (248.5mL/h vs 51.3mL/h), while the additional electric input was only accounted for 25.6% of the energy income from the increased CH4 production. This study demonstrated that a bioelectrochemical enhanced anaerobic reactor could improve the CH4 production and organic removal at a short HRT, providing an economically feasible scheme to treat wastewater.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Li
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (MOE), School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, PR China
| | - Yaobin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (MOE), School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, PR China.
| | - Yiwen Liu
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Zhiqiang Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (MOE), School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, PR China
| | - Zisheng Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (MOE), School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, PR China
| | - Sitong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (MOE), School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, PR China
| | - Huimin Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (MOE), School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, PR China
| | - Xie Quan
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (MOE), School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, PR China
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Yao Y, Chen S. A novel and simple approach to the good process performance of methane recovery from lignocellulosic biomass alone. BIOTECHNOLOGY FOR BIOFUELS 2016; 9:115. [PMID: 27252780 PMCID: PMC4888344 DOI: 10.1186/s13068-016-0530-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2016] [Accepted: 05/19/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Solid-state anaerobic digestion (SS-AD) has been increasingly used for lignocellulosic biomass treatment. However, the separate reactor required for pretreatment prior digestion, poor treatment capacity, and process stability inhibit further development of the SS-AD. In this study, a novel method called SS-AD with simultaneous urea treatment and soil addition was proposed. The process performance of methane yield from rape straw was investigated by adopting the method. RESULTS The results show that the process performance of methane yield from rape straw using the method was better. The level of daily methane yield and the process stability were improved. The time required for reaching steady state was 6 days shorter than that of the common method (SS-AD and urea pretreatment), and the methane content in a stable-state level was 77.5-80.1 %. The total methane yield [409.6 L/kg volatile solids (VS)] was the maximal after using the method, which was 22.6 and 76.8 % higher than those of SS-AD with urea pretreatment and SS-AD with simultaneous urea treatment, respectively. In addition, the carbon dioxide content was reduced significantly. Degradation of feedstock was high; the highest reductions of VS, cellulose, and hemicellulose were 57.1, 61.4, and 65.8 %, respectively, which were in accordance with the maximal methane yield. SEM images also indicate that the biodegradation degree of rape straw in SS-AD was in line with methane yield. CONCLUSIONS The process performance of SS-AD of lignocellulosic biomass (rape straw) with simultaneous urea treatment and soil addition was better. This simplified, low cost, and efficient method has good practicability, which can try to be used for other types of lignocellulosic biomass.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqing Yao
- Department of Biological Systems Engineering, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164 USA
| | - Shulin Chen
- Department of Biological Systems Engineering, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164 USA
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