1
|
Jiang Y, Wang S, Li C, Cai YA, Xiong X, Tang Y, Shao S, Wang C, Ng HY. Unraveling the mechanism of fouling mitigation in AGS-MBR system: From AGS properties to foulant interactions. WATER RESEARCH 2025; 279:123403. [PMID: 40068289 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2025.123403] [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: 11/13/2024] [Revised: 02/22/2025] [Accepted: 02/26/2025] [Indexed: 05/06/2025]
Abstract
Aerobic granular sludge (AGS) has demonstrated a lower fouling propensity than floc sludge in membrane bioreactors (MBRs) due to various hypotheses, including differences in particle size and the efficacy of physical scouring. However, controversy exists regarding the dominant cause of this lower fouling. Therefore, in this work, we systematically investigated the contribution of four potential mechanisms of AGS on membrane fouling alleviation in MBRs: 1) loosening cake layer; 2) scouring of the membrane surface; 3) regulating soluble microbial product (SMP) secretion; and 4) changing the rheology of the bulk solution. Our results showed that, regardless of granular size range, AGS hardly caused cake fouling due to its low hydraulic resistances (<0.8 × 1012 m-1) and limited accumulation on the membrane surface. Scouring by AGS was ineffective in reducing the thickness and hydraulic resistance of the fouling layer compared with granular activated carbon, a commonly used scouring material for MBRs. Furthermore, liquid chromatography-organic carbon detection-organic nitrogen detection (LC-OCD-OND) results indicated that the lower fouling was related to reduced SMP secretion by AGS, with an optimal particle size (800-1000 μm) at which SMP secretion was minimized. AGS with this optimal particle size secreted over 54 % less high-molecular-weight SMP compared to floc sludge. As granule size further increased, SMP secretion increased due to biomass decay and cell lysis resulting from substrate transfer limitations in granules. Moreover, compared to floc sludge, granular sludge bulk solution exhibited lower viscosity, particularly in the 450-1000 μm size range. This enhanced rheological behavior could potentially improve shear stress induced by aeration, thereby mitigating membrane fouling. These findings emphasize that the indirect effects of AGS, including reduced SMP secretion and improved rheological properties, played a crucial role in the lower membrane fouling in AGS-MBRs, while direct effects such as loosening cake layer and the scouring effect played minor roles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Jiang
- School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Si Wang
- School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Chaoyu Li
- School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Yu-Ang Cai
- School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Xiuquan Xiong
- School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Yinghao Tang
- School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Senlin Shao
- School of Civil Engineering, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China.
| | - Chuansheng Wang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Singapore, 1 Engineering Drive 2, 117576, Singapore
| | - How Yong Ng
- Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for Water Security, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai 519087, China; Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Singapore, 1 Engineering Drive 2, 117576, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Yang J, Huang Z, He C, Mei H, Wang Y, Hu ZH, Wang W. Waste iron shavings to advance anaerobic treatment of acidic poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) wastewater in submerged anaerobic membrane reactor. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2025; 490:137813. [PMID: 40043397 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2025.137813] [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: 12/04/2024] [Revised: 02/01/2025] [Accepted: 02/28/2025] [Indexed: 04/16/2025]
Abstract
The wastewater generated during the synthesis of biodegradable plastics, namely poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT), is greatly acidic and contains various toxic pollutants. Adding waste iron shavings (WIS) into the submerged anaerobic membrane bioreactor to construct the coupled reactor (WIS-Reactor) holds promise for improving the treatment efficiency of acidic PBAT wastewater. The results showed that the chemical oxygen demand (COD) and volatile fatty acids (VFAs) removal efficiencies of WIS-Reactor were increased by 2.36 and 9.92 times, respectively, compared with the control. Even under strongly acidic influent conditions (pH = 4.0), the methane conversion efficiency (227.07 mLCH4/gCODr) and COD removal rate (51.80 %) in WIS-Reactor were maintained consistently. The pH value in WIS-Reactor increased to around 6.0, the alkalinity increased by 1.5 times due to hydrogen evolution corrosion, and the sludge concentration increased by 19 % without a substantial increase in membrane fouling. Further analysis showed that iron ions released by WIS promoted the secretion of coenzyme F420, enhanced electron transfer between microorganisms, and accelerated CH4 production through enhancing the hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis pathway. Additionally, WIS promoted the enrichment of acidogenic bacteria (Corynebacterium) and electroactive microorganisms (Synergistaceae), and may accelerate the electron transfer efficiency between Syntrophomonas and Methanosaeta through direct interspecies electron transfer, thereby improving the anaerobic digestion of acidic PBAT wastewater.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yang
- Department of Municipal Engineering, School of Civil Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
| | - Zhiqiang Huang
- Department of Municipal Engineering, School of Civil Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
| | - Chunhua He
- Department of Municipal Engineering, School of Environment and Energy Engineering, Anhui JianZhu University, Hefei 230009, China
| | - Hong Mei
- Department of Municipal Engineering, School of Civil Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Industrial Wastewater and Environmental Treatment, East China Engineering Science and Technology Co., Ltd., Hefei 230022, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Municipal Engineering, School of Civil Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Industrial Wastewater and Environmental Treatment, East China Engineering Science and Technology Co., Ltd., Hefei 230022, China
| | - Zhen-Hu Hu
- Department of Municipal Engineering, School of Civil Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Municipal Engineering, School of Civil Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Bijimol BI, Elias L, Sreelekshmy BR, Shibli SMA. Effective Exploitation of Sugarcane Byproducts and Industrial Effluents for Strategic Energy Applications: A Review on Recent Developments and Approaches with Special Reference to Microbial Fuel Cells. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2025; 8:3657-3690. [PMID: 40322952 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.5c00239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2025]
Abstract
Apart from its role in agriculture, the contribution of the sugarcane industry and its related sectors toward the global economy is seemingly great. Hence, it is imperative to adopt the maximum possible ways to completely recover the stored chemical energy in sugarcane to generate additional revenue and thereby to ensure the sustainability of sugarcane-related industries by surmounting the regional/seasonal limitations associated with sugarcane cultivation. So, the present Review aims to highlight the importance of sugarcane crops in the global economy by comprehensively discussing the energy value of byproducts and industrial waste generated during the processing of sugarcane. The various possible strategies reported so far for the effective recovery of bioenergy from sugarcane components are discussed with a special emphasis on technologies capable of converting the stored chemical energy into electrical energy or fuel. As the fraction of waste components generated during the harvesting or processing of sugarcane is high, the bioenergy recovery strategies standing close to the "waste-to-energy" concept are the most rewarding ones, suitable for complete bioenergy recovery. Hence, the microbial fuel cell (MFC) technology that offers dual benefits in terms of waste management and power generation is receiving much attention. The status of technological developments in MFCs and the possibilities for developing hybrid technologies through their integration with existing sugar industry waste processing strategies, to further enhance the effective exploitation of the energy value of sugarcane byproducts, are discussed rigorously by focusing on their commercialization possibilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Babu Indira Bijimol
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kerala, Kariavattom Campus, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695 581, India
| | - Liju Elias
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kerala, Kariavattom Campus, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695 581, India
| | | | - Sheik Muhammadhu Aboobakar Shibli
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kerala, Kariavattom Campus, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695 581, India
- Centre for Renewable Energy and Materials, University of Kerala, Kariavattom Campus, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695 581, India
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Zhou M, Cao J, Guo J, Wang Y, Lu Y, Zhu L, Hu L, Liu W, Li C. Mechanisms and mitigation control of clogging in constructed wetlands: Insight into the enhancement of the bioelectrochemical systems. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2025; 379:124809. [PMID: 40049013 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.124809] [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: 10/10/2024] [Revised: 02/20/2025] [Accepted: 03/01/2025] [Indexed: 03/22/2025]
Abstract
Constructed wetlands (CWs), a cost-effective and eco-friendly wastewater treatment technology, are extensively applied in various types of wastewater treatment. There is a series of strong impacts on CWs performance by the accumulation of clogging matters which attribute to physical, chemical, and biological processes after the long-term operation. This paper summarizes the mechanism of clogging formation, which can be classified into physical, chemical, and biological clogging. Moreover, it analyzes the typical measures for preventing and controlling clogging in CWs. The integration of bioelectrochemical systems (BES), including microbial fuel cells (MFCs) and microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) into CWs is proposed as a safe and efficient way to alleviate substrate clogging on-site, owing to the fact that BES can easily automate the control or adjustment of its internal electric field form. The mechanism of clogging control by CW-BES is comprehensively described and analyzed. With the help of BES, the clogging substances obtained optimized occurrence form, reduced hydrophobicity and advantageous spatial distribution. Besides, the microbial community achieved promoted structure, accelerated rates of electron transfer and more diverse metabolic pathway. Compared to traditional methods for evaluating the clogging of CWs, the MFC sensor offers the advantages of being fast, enabling in-site detection, and being non-destructive. Future research should be focused on the theoretical underpinnings for putting CW-BES into practical use. Additional, efforts should be made to ensure the stable, long-term operation of CWs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ming Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China; Henan Yongze Environmental Technology Co., LTD, Zhengzhou, 451191, China
| | - Jiashun Cao
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
| | - Jinyan Guo
- Henan Yongze Environmental Technology Co., LTD, Zhengzhou, 451191, China
| | - Yantang Wang
- Henan Yongze Environmental Technology Co., LTD, Zhengzhou, 451191, China
| | - Yanhong Lu
- Henan Yongze Environmental Technology Co., LTD, Zhengzhou, 451191, China
| | - Lisha Zhu
- Henan Yongze Environmental Technology Co., LTD, Zhengzhou, 451191, China
| | - Li Hu
- College of Biology and Food Engineering, Huanghuai University, 76 Kaiyuan Road, Zhumadian, 463000, China
| | - Weijing Liu
- Jiangsu Provincial Academy of Environmental Science, Nanjing, 210036, China
| | - Chao Li
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Lu X, Li X, Qi H, Chen C, Jin W. Enhanced pollution control using sediment microbial fuel cells for ecological remediation. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2025; 418:131970. [PMID: 39674350 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2024.131970] [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: 10/09/2024] [Revised: 12/04/2024] [Accepted: 12/09/2024] [Indexed: 12/16/2024]
Abstract
Sediment Microbial Fuel Cell (SMFC) technology is an innovative approach to facilitate the degradation of sedimentary organic matter by electroactive microorganisms, transforming chemical energy into electrical energy and modulating the redox potential at the sediment-water interface, consequently controlling the release of endogenous pollutants. The synergistic effects of various environmental factors and intrinsic conditions can significantly impact SMFC performance. This review provides a comprehensive overview of SMFC development in research and application for water environment treatment and ecological remediation, a perspective rarely explored in previous reviews. It discusses optimization strategies for SMFC implementation, emphasizing advancements in novel or cost-effective electrode materials, the dynamics of microbial communities, and the control of typical pollutants. The review suggests a virtuous cycle path for SMFC development, highlighting future research needs, including integrating cross-disciplinary approaches like artificial intelligence, genomics, and mathematical modeling, to enhance the deployment of SMFC in real-world environmental remediation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Lu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, PR China; National Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Urban Domestic Wastewater Resource Utilization Technology, Suzhou 215009, PR China
| | - Xiaojing Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, PR China; National Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Urban Domestic Wastewater Resource Utilization Technology, Suzhou 215009, PR China
| | - Hang Qi
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, PR China; National Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Urban Domestic Wastewater Resource Utilization Technology, Suzhou 215009, PR China
| | - Chongjun Chen
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, PR China; National Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Urban Domestic Wastewater Resource Utilization Technology, Suzhou 215009, PR China
| | - Wei Jin
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, PR China; National Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Urban Domestic Wastewater Resource Utilization Technology, Suzhou 215009, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Hu J, Cao X, Qu L, Khodseewong S, Zhang S, Sakamaki T, Li X. Study on the mechanism of mitigating membrane fouling in MFC-AnMBR coupling system treating sodium and magnesium ion-containing wastewater. ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY 2024; 45:6210-6223. [PMID: 38488119 DOI: 10.1080/09593330.2024.2329916] [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: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 12/05/2024]
Abstract
Anaerobic Membrane Bioreactors (AnMBR) offer numerous advantages in wastewater treatment, yet they are prone to membrane fouling after extended operation, impeding their long-term efficiency and stability. In this study, a coupled system was developed using modified conductive membranes as the filtration membrane for the AnMBR and as the anodic conductive membrane in the microbial electrochemical system, with a total volume of approximately 2.57 L. The research focused on understanding the membrane fouling characteristics of the AnMBR when treating wastewater containing sodium ion (Na+) and magnesium ion (Mg2+). When the system was treating wastewater containing Na+, organic pollutants such as proteins and polysaccharides were identified as the primary causes of membrane fouling. Three experimental groups generating different electric currents exhibited extended operational times compared to the open-circuit control group, with extensions of 30, 24, and 15 days, respectively. Conversely, when treating wastewater with Mg2+, organic-inorganic composite fouling, primarily driven by Mg2+ bridging, emerged as the key challenge, with the experimental groups showing operational extensions of 5, 8, and 23 days, respectively, in comparison to the control group. Analysis of proteins and polysaccharides indicated that electric current played a crucial role in reducing organic fouling in the sludge cake layer. When treating wastewater containing Na+, the effectiveness of membrane fouling control was directly proportional to the electric current, while when treating wastewater containing Mg2+, it was directly proportional to the voltage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jijing Hu
- College of Energy and Environment, Southeast University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xian Cao
- College of Energy and Environment, Southeast University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Atmospheric Environment and Equipment Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment Monitoring and Pollution Control (AEMPC), Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Liwei Qu
- College of Energy and Environment, Southeast University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | | | - Shuai Zhang
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Atmospheric Environment and Equipment Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment Monitoring and Pollution Control (AEMPC), Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Takashi Sakamaki
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Xianning Li
- College of Energy and Environment, Southeast University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Wang J, Xu L, Wang Y, He C, Mei H, Xuan L, Wang Y, Dong F, Wang W. Rapid start-up and excellent performance of anaerobic membrane bioreactor for treating poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) wastewater by using one-step feeding mode. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 370:122544. [PMID: 39316878 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.122544] [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: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 09/05/2024] [Accepted: 09/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/26/2024]
Abstract
The traditional anaerobic treatment process for highly concentrated, toxic, and acidic poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) wastewater faces challenges. In contrast, the anaerobic membrane bioreactor (AnMBR) offers the advantage of robust performance, but the influence of start-up modes has not been explored. This study investigated the impact of one-step and stepwise startup (gradual dilution of wastewater) strategies in AnMBR treating PBAT wastewater. The results indicated that the one-step startup group achieved COD removal efficiency of 91.2% ± 2.7% and methane conversion rate of 234.7 ± 8.5 mLCH4/gCOD, which were 21.7% and 81.8 mL CH4/gCOD respectively higher than those achieved by the stepwise start-up group. Furthermore, the one-step startup led to the reduction of startup time by 10 days and the decrease in the average membrane fouling cycle by 6.6 days. Compared to the stepwise start-up group, the one-step startup group exhibited a lower abundance of Bacteroidota (11.3%), and a higher abundance of Proteobacteria (27.1%), Chloroflexi (10.5%), and Actinobacteria (11.8%). The one-step startup strategy facilitated the rapid development of a toxicity-tolerant hydrogenotrophic methanogenic pathway. Consequently, the one-step startup method provided a promising approach for the rapid start-up and excellent performance of AnMBR in PBAT wastewater treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Wang
- Department of Municipal Engineering, School of Civil Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, 230009, China
| | - Luyao Xu
- Department of Municipal Engineering, School of Civil Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, 230009, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Industrial Wastewater and Environmental Treatment, East China Engineering Science and Technology Co., Ltd., Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Chunhua He
- Department of Municipal Engineering, School of Environment and Energy Engineering, Anhui JianZhu University, Hefei, 230009, China
| | - Hong Mei
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Industrial Wastewater and Environmental Treatment, East China Engineering Science and Technology Co., Ltd., Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Liang Xuan
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Industrial Wastewater and Environmental Treatment, East China Engineering Science and Technology Co., Ltd., Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Yuwei Wang
- Department of Municipal Engineering, School of Civil Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, 230009, China
| | - Fang Dong
- Department of Municipal Engineering, School of Civil Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, 230009, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Municipal Engineering, School of Civil Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, 230009, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Liu Y, Zhang J, Cheng D, Guo W, Liu X, Chen Z, Zhang Z, Ngo HH. Fate and mitigation of antibiotics and antibiotic resistance genes in microbial fuel cell and coupled systems. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 938:173530. [PMID: 38815818 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173530] [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: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Microbial fuel cells (MFCs), known for their low energy consumption, high efficiency, and environmental friendliness, have been widely utilized for removing antibiotics from wastewater. Compared to conventional wastewater treatment methods, MFCs produce less sludge while exhibiting superior antibiotic removal capacity, effectively reducing the spread of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). This study investigates 1) the mechanisms of ARGs generation and proliferation in MFCs; 2) the influencing factors on the fate and removal of antibiotics and ARGs; and 3) the fate and mitigation of ARGs in MFC and MFC-coupled systems. It is indicated that high removal efficiency of antibiotics and minimal amount of sludge production contribute the mitigation of ARGs in MFCs. Influencing factors, such as cathode potential, electrode materials, salinity, initial antibiotic concentration, and additional additives, can lead to the selection of tolerant microbial communities, thereby affecting the abundance of ARGs carried by various microbial hosts. Integrating MFCs with other wastewater treatment systems can synergistically enhance their performance, thereby improving the overall removal efficiency of ARGs. Moreover, challenges and future directions for mitigating the spread of ARGs using MFCs are suggested.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yufei Liu
- College of Safety and Environmental Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266590, China; Institute of Yellow River Delta Earth Surface Processes and Ecological Integrity, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266590, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- College of Safety and Environmental Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266590, China; Institute of Yellow River Delta Earth Surface Processes and Ecological Integrity, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266590, China
| | - Dongle Cheng
- College of Safety and Environmental Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266590, China; Institute of Yellow River Delta Earth Surface Processes and Ecological Integrity, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266590, China.
| | - Wenshan Guo
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NWS 2007, Australia
| | - Xiaoqing Liu
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NWS 2007, Australia
| | - Zhijie Chen
- UNSW Water Research Centre, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Zehao Zhang
- National Engineering Laboratory of Urban Sewage Advanced Treatment and Resource Utilization Technology, The College of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China
| | - Huu Hao Ngo
- College of Safety and Environmental Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266590, China; Institute of Yellow River Delta Earth Surface Processes and Ecological Integrity, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266590, China; Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NWS 2007, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Li T, Yang XL, Qin C, Xu H, Sun Y, Song HL. Role of membrane fouling layer in microbial fuel cell-membrane bioreactor (MFC-MBR) for controlling sulfamethoxazole and corresponding resistance genes. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 366:121876. [PMID: 39018855 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.121876] [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: 04/20/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
Integrated MFC-MBR systems effectively remove antibiotics and control the release of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). However, the fouling layers on membranes can potentially act as reservoirs for ARGs. This study aims to elucidate the roles of membrane fouling layers and levels in influencing sulfamethoxazole (SMX) removal and ARGs control within an MFC-MBR system. Our findings demonstrate that low-intensity bioelectricity (400-500 mV) mitigates membrane fouling rates. The membrane fouling layer significantly contributes (39%-47%) to SMX removal compared to the cathode/anode zones. Higher extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) content and a lower protein/polysaccharide (PN/PS) ratio favor SMX removal by the membrane fouling layer. Across different levels of membrane fouling, the PN/PS ratio rather than EPS concentration plays a crucial role in SMX removal efficiency. The MFC-MBR with low fouling achieved superior SMX removal (69.1%) compared to medium (54.3%) and high fouling conditions (46.8%). The presence of ARGs in the membrane fouling layer increases with fouling formation, with intrinsic ARGs prevailing. Dense membrane fouling layers effectively retain ARGs, thereby reducing the risk of extracellular ARGs (eARGs) diffusion in effluents. These results provide insights into controlling ARGs in MFC-MBR systems and underscore the significant role of membrane fouling layers in antibiotics and ARGs removal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tao Li
- College of Urban Construction, Nanjing Tech University, 211816, China; School of Civil Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 211189, China.
| | - Xiao-Li Yang
- School of Civil Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 211189, China.
| | - Congyu Qin
- School of Civil Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 211189, China.
| | - Han Xu
- School of Civil Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 211189, China.
| | - Yun Sun
- School of Civil Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 211189, China.
| | - Hai-Liang Song
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Environmental Risk Prevention and Emergency Response Technology, Jiangsu Engineering Lab of Water and Soil Eco-Remediation, Wenyuan Road 1, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Zhang C, Zeng X, Xu X, Nie W, Dubey BK, Ding W. PDA-Fe 3O 4 decorated carbon felt anode enhancing electrochemical performance of microbial fuel cells: Effect of electrode materials on electroactive biofilm. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 355:141764. [PMID: 38521108 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141764] [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: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
Anode modification is an effective strategy for enhancing the electrochemical performance of microbial fuel cell (MFC). However, the impacts of the modified materials on anode biofilm development during MFC operation have been less studied. We prepared a novel PDA-Fe3O4-CF composite anode by coating original carbon felt anode (CF) with polydopamine (PDA) and Fe3O4 nanoparticles. The composite anode material was characterized by excellent hydrophilicity and electrical conductivity, and the anodic biofilm exhibited fast start-up, higher biomass, and more uniform biofilm layer after MFC operation. The MFC reactor assembled with the composite anode achieved a maximum power density of 608 mW m-2 and an output voltage of 586 mV, which were 316.4% and 72.4% higher than the MFC with the original CF anode, respectively. Microbial community analysis indicated that the modified anode biofilm had a higher relative abundance of exoelectrogen species in comparison to the unmodified anode. The PICRUSt data revealed that the anodic materials may affect the bioelectrochemical performance of the biofilm by influencing the expression levels of key enzyme genes involved in biofilm extracellular polymer (EPS) secretion and extracellular electron transfer (EET). The growth of the anodic biofilm would exert positive or negative influences on the efficiency of electricity production and electron transfer of the MFCs at different operating stages. This work expands the knowledge of the role that anodic materials play in the development and electrochemical performance of anodic biofilm in MFCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cunkuan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Xiaolan Zeng
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China.
| | - Xiaotang Xu
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Wenbo Nie
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Brajesh Kumar Dubey
- Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West India
| | - Wenchuan Ding
- Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China; College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Zhang C, He P, Liu J, Zhou X, Li X, Lu J, Hou B. Study on performance and mechanisms of anaerobic oxidation of methane-microbial fuel cells (AOM-MFCs) with acetate-acclimatizing or formate-acclimatizing electroactive culture. Bioelectrochemistry 2023; 151:108404. [PMID: 36842363 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2023.108404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
Anaerobic oxidation of methane-microbial fuel cells with acetate-acclimatizing or formate-acclimatizing electroactive culture (A-AOM-MFC and F-AOM-MFC) were designed and operated at room temperature in this study to evaluate and explore the electrochemical performance and mechanisms of methane conversion and electricity generation. The results indicated that A-AOM-MFC output a higher voltage (0.526 ± 0.001 V) and F-AOM-MFC started up in a shorter time (51 d), resulting from different mechanisms of methane-electrogen caused by discrepant microbial alliances. Specifically, in A-AOM-MFC, acetoclastic methanogens (e.g., Methanosaeta) converted methane into intermediates (e.g., acetate) through reversing methanogenesis and carried out the direct interspecific electron transfer (DIET) with Geobacter-predominated electricigens which can oxidize the intermediates to carbon dioxide and transfer electrons to the electrodes. Differently, the intermediate-dependent extracellular electron transfer (EET) existed in F-AOM-MFC between hydro-methanogens (e.g., Methanobacterium) and electricigens (e.g., Geothrix), which was more difficult than DIET. Additionally, hydro-methanogens metabolized methane to produce formate-dominant intermediates more quickly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chao Zhang
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, North University of China, Taiyuan 030051, China.
| | - Pan He
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, North University of China, Taiyuan 030051, China.
| | - Jiaxin Liu
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, North University of China, Taiyuan 030051, China.
| | - Xiaolong Zhou
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, North University of China, Taiyuan 030051, China.
| | - Xinfeng Li
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, North University of China, Taiyuan 030051, China.
| | - Jing Lu
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, North University of China, Taiyuan 030051, China.
| | - Bin Hou
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, North University of China, Taiyuan 030051, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Zang L, Yang XL, Xu H, Deng YJ, Yue ZX, Song HL. Alleviating membrane fouling by enhanced bioelectricity generation via internal reflux of sludge mixed liquor in microbial fuel cell-membrane bioreactor (MFC-MBR) coupling system. J Memb Sci 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.memsci.2023.121495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2023]
|
13
|
Abstract
The use of organic waste as fuel for energy generation will reduce the great environmental problems currently caused by the consumption of fossil sources, giving agribusiness companies a profitable way to use their waste. In this research, tomato waste with different percentages of sucrose (0-target, 5, 10, and 20%) was used in microbial fuel cells manufactured on a laboratory scale with zinc and copper electrodes, managing to generate maximum peaks of voltage and a current of 1.08 V and 6.67 mA in the cell with 20% sucrose, in which it was observed that the optimum operating pH was 5.29, while the MFC with 0% (target) sucrose generated 0.91 V and 3.12 A on day 13 with a similar pH, even though all the cells worked in an acidic pH. Likewise, the cell with 20% sucrose had the lowest internal resistance (0.148541 ± 0.012361 KΩ) and the highest power density (224.77 mW/cm2) at a current density of 4.43 mA/cm2, while the MFC with 0% sucrose generated 160.52 mW/cm2 and 4.38 mA/cm2 of power density and current density, respectively, with an internal resistance of 0.34116 ± 0.2914 KΩ. In this sense, the FTIR (Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy) of all the substrates used showed a high content of phenolic compounds and carboxylate acids. Finally, the MFCs were connected in a series and managed to generate a voltage of 3.43 V, enough to light an LED (green). These results give great hope to companies and society that, in the near future, this technology can be taken to a larger scale.
Collapse
|
14
|
Membrane Fouling Mitigation in MBR via the Feast–Famine Strategy to Enhance PHA Production by Activated Sludge. MEMBRANES 2022; 12:membranes12070703. [PMID: 35877906 PMCID: PMC9317799 DOI: 10.3390/membranes12070703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Fouling is considered one of the main drawbacks of membrane bioreactor (MBR) technology. Among the main fouling agents, extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) are considered one of the most impactful since they cause the decrease of sludge filterability and decline of membrane flux in the long term. The present study investigated a biological strategy to reduce the membrane-fouling tendency in MBR systems. This consisted of seeding the reactor with activated sludge enriched in microorganisms with polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) storage ability and by imposing proper operating conditions to drive the carbon toward intracellular (PHA) rather than extracellular (EPS) accumulation. For that purpose, an MBR lab-scale plant was operated for 175 days, divided into four periods (1–4) according to different food to microorganisms’ ratios (F/M) (0.80 kg COD kg TSS−1 d−1 (Period 1), 0.13 kg COD kg TSS−1 d−1 (Period 2), 0.28 kg COD kg TSS−1 d−1 (Period 3), and 0.38 kg COD kg TSS−1 d−1 (Period 4)). The application of the feast/famine strategy favored the accumulation of intracellular polymers by bacteria. The increase of the PHA accumulation inside the cells corresponded to the decrease of EPS and an F/M of 0.40–0.50 kg COD kg TSS−1 d−1 was found as optimum to maximize the PHA production, while minimizing EPS. The lowest EPS content in the sludge (18% of total suspended solids) that corresponded to the maximum content of PHA (9.3%) was found in Period 4 and determined significant mitigation of the fouling rate, whose value was close to 0.10 × 1011 m−1 h−1. Thus, by imposing proper operating conditions, it was possible to drive the organic matter toward PHA accumulation. Moreover, a lower EPS content corresponded to a decrease in the irreversible fouling mechanism, which would imply a lower frequency of the extraordinary cleaning operations. This study highlighted the possibility of obtaining a double benefit by applying an MBR system in the frame of wastewater valorization: minimizing the fouling tendency of the membrane and recovery precursors of bioplastics from wastewater in line with the circular economy model.
Collapse
|