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Suri D, Aeshala LM, Palai T. Microbial electrosynthesis of valuable chemicals from the reduction of CO 2: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024:10.1007/s11356-024-33678-z. [PMID: 38772994 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-33678-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
The present energy demand of the world is increasing but the fossil fuels are gradually depleting. As a result, the need for alternative fuels and energy sources is growing. Fuel cells could be one alternative to address the challenge. The fuel cell can convert CO2 to value-added chemicals. The potential of bio-fuel cells, specifically enzymatic fuel cells and microbial fuel cells, and the importance of immobilization technology in bio-fuel cells are highlighted. The review paper also includes a detailed explanation of the microbial electrosynthesis system to reduce CO2 and the value-added products during microbial electrosynthesis. Future research in bio-electrochemical synthesis for CO2 conversion is expected to prioritize enhancing biocatalyst efficiency, refining reactor design, exploring novel electrode materials, understanding microbial interactions, integrating renewable energy sources, and investigating electrochemical processes for carbon capture and selective CO2 reduction. The challenges and perspectives of bio-electrochemical systems in the application of CO2 conversion are also discussed. Overall, this review paper provides valuable insights into the latest developments and criteria for effective research and implementation in bio-fuel cells, immobilization technology, and microbial electro-synthesis systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diksha Suri
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Hamirpur, Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh, 177005, India
| | - Leela Manohar Aeshala
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Srinagar, Hazratbal, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, 190006, India
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Warangal, Warangal, Telangana, 506004, India
| | - Tapas Palai
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Hamirpur, Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh, 177005, India.
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2
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Hou J, Li Y, Guo H, Wang Y, He Y, Sun P, Zhao Y, Ni BJ, Zhu T, Liu Y. Efficient electrosynthesis of HO 2- from air for sulfide control in sewers. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 470:134181. [PMID: 38569343 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Electrochemically in-situ generation of oxygen and caustic soda is promising for sulfide management while suffers from scaling, poor inactivating capacity, hydrogen release and ammonia escape. In this study, the four-compartment electrochemical cell efficiently captured oxygen molecules from the air chamber to produce HO2- without generating toxic by-products. Meanwhile, the catalyst layer surface of PTFE/CB-GDE maintained a relatively balanced gas-liquid micro-environment, enabling the formation of enduring solid-liquid-gas interfaces for efficient HO2- electrosynthesis. A dramatic increase in HO2- generation rate from 453.3 mg L-1 h-1 to 575.4 mg L-1 h-1 was attained by advancement in operation parameters design (flow channels, electrolyte types, flow rates and circulation types). Stability testing resulted in the HO2- generation rate over 15 g L-1 and the current efficiency (CE) exceeding 85%, indicating a robust stable operational capacity. Furthermore, after 120 mg L-1 HO2- treatment, an increase of 11.1% in necrotic and apoptotic cells in the sewer biofilm was observed, higher than that achieved with the addition of NaOH, H2O2 method. The in-situ electrosynthesis strategy for HO2- represents a significance toward the practical implementation of sulfide abatement in sewers, holding the potential to treat various sulfide-containing wastewater.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Hou
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China
| | - Yiming Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China
| | - Haixiao Guo
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China
| | - Yufen Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China
| | - Yanying He
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China
| | - Peizhe Sun
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China
| | - Yingxin Zhao
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China
| | - Bing-Jie Ni
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
| | - Tingting Zhu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China.
| | - Yiwen Liu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China.
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Deng F, Olvera-Vargas H, Zhou M, Qiu S, Sirés I, Brillas E. Critical Review on the Mechanisms of Fe 2+ Regeneration in the Electro-Fenton Process: Fundamentals and Boosting Strategies. Chem Rev 2023; 123:4635-4662. [PMID: 36917618 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.2c00684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
This review presents an exhaustive overview on the mechanisms of Fe3+ cathodic reduction within the context of the electro-Fenton (EF) process. Different strategies developed to improve the reduction rate are discussed, dividing them into two categories that regard the mechanistic feature that is promoted: electron transfer control and mass transport control. Boosting the Fe3+ conversion to Fe2+ via electron transfer control includes: (i) the formation of a series of active sites in both carbon- and metal-based materials and (ii) the use of other emerging strategies such as single-atom catalysis or confinement effects. Concerning the enhancement of Fe2+ regeneration by mass transport control, the main routes involve the application of magnetic fields, pulse electrolysis, interfacial Joule heating effects, and photoirradiation. Finally, challenges are singled out, and future prospects are described. This review aims to clarify the Fe3+/Fe2+ cycling process in the EF process, eventually providing essential ideas for smart design of highly effective systems for wastewater treatment and valorization at an industrial scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengxia Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, P. R. China.,Laboratori d'Electroquímica dels Materials i del Medi Ambient, Departament de Ciència de Materials i Química Física, Secció de Química Física, Facultat de Química, Universitat de Barcelona, Martí i Franquès 1-11, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Hugo Olvera-Vargas
- Instituto de Energías Renovables, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (IER-UNAM), Priv. Xochicalco S/N, Col. Centro, Temixco, Morelos CP 62580, México
| | - Minghua Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Process and Environmental Criteria, Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, P. R. China
| | - Shan Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, P. R. China
| | - Ignasi Sirés
- Laboratori d'Electroquímica dels Materials i del Medi Ambient, Departament de Ciència de Materials i Química Física, Secció de Química Física, Facultat de Química, Universitat de Barcelona, Martí i Franquès 1-11, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Enric Brillas
- Laboratori d'Electroquímica dels Materials i del Medi Ambient, Departament de Ciència de Materials i Química Física, Secció de Química Física, Facultat de Química, Universitat de Barcelona, Martí i Franquès 1-11, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
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Wang Y, Zhang X, Xiao L, Lin H. The in-depth revelation of the mechanism by which a downflow Leersia hexandra Swartz constructed wetland-microbial fuel cell synchronously removes Cr(VI) and p-chlorophenol and generates electricity. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 216:114451. [PMID: 36183789 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.114451] [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: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The composite pollution by Cr(VI) and p-chlorophenol (4-CP) has high toxicity and harms water safety. However, research on the effective removal of Cr(VI) and 4-CP composite-polluted wastewater (C&P) and efficient synchronous electricity generation with reclaimed resources is limited. In this study, a downflow Leersia hexandra constructed wetland-microbial fuel cell (DLCW-MFC) was builded to treat C&P, as well as wastewater singularly polluted by Cr(VI) (SC) and 4-CP (SP), respectively, to reveal the mechanism by which DLCW-MFC treats C&P and synchronously generates electricity. The results demonstrate that the cathode layer had a stronger removal effect on pollutants than the middle layer and anode zone layer. Moreover, SC and SP had stronger pollutant removal effects than C&P. Cr(VI) had more competitive with electrons than 4-CP, and they had a synergistic effect on efficient electricity generation. The L.hexandra in SC and SP had a better growth state and lower Cr enrichment concentration than that in C&P. Cr existed in the DLCW-MFC mainly in the form of Cr(III). Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was used to investigate the degradation pathway of 4-CP in C&P, and indicated that Phenol, 2,4-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl)- and benzoic acid compounds were the main intermediates formed at the cathode, and further mineralized to form medium-long-chain organic compounds to form CO2. The microbial community distribution results revealed that Simplicispira, Cloacibacterium, and Rhizobium are associated with Cr(VI) removal and 4-CP degradation, and were found to be rich in the cathode of C&P. The anode of C&P was found to have more Acinetobacter (1.34%) and Spirochaeta (4.83%) than SC and SP, and the total relative abundance of electricigens at the anode of C&P (7.46%) was higher than that at the anodes of SC and SP. This study can provide a theoretical foundation for the DLCW-MFC to treat heavy metal and chlorophenol composite-polluted wastewater and synchronously generate electricity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yian Wang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guilin University of Technology, 319 Yanshan Street, Guilin, 541000, China; Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Water Pollution Control and Water Safety in Karst Areas, Guilin University of Technology, 319 Yanshan Street, Guilin, 541000, China.
| | - Xuehong Zhang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guilin University of Technology, 319 Yanshan Street, Guilin, 541000, China; Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Water Pollution Control and Water Safety in Karst Areas, Guilin University of Technology, 319 Yanshan Street, Guilin, 541000, China.
| | - Ling Xiao
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guilin University of Technology, 319 Yanshan Street, Guilin, 541000, China; Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Water Pollution Control and Water Safety in Karst Areas, Guilin University of Technology, 319 Yanshan Street, Guilin, 541000, China.
| | - Hua Lin
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guilin University of Technology, 319 Yanshan Street, Guilin, 541000, China; Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Water Pollution Control and Water Safety in Karst Areas, Guilin University of Technology, 319 Yanshan Street, Guilin, 541000, China.
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Ye S, Geng J, Zhang H, Hu J, Zou X, Li J. Boosting oxygen diffusion by micro-nano bubbles for highly-efficient H2O2 generation on air-calcining graphite felt. Electrochim Acta 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2022.141708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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6
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Organic Waste Substrates for Bioenergy Production via Microbial Fuel Cells: A Key Point Review. ENERGIES 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/en15155616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
High-energy consumption globally has raised questions about the low environmentally friendly and high-cost processes used until now for energy production. Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) may support alternative more economically and environmentally favorable ways of bioenergy production based on their advantage of using waste. MFCs work as bio-electrochemical devices that consume organic substrates in order for the electrogenic bacteria and/or enzyme cultures to produce electricity and simultaneously lower the environmental hazardous value of waste such as COD. The utilization of organic waste as fuels in MFCs has opened a new research path for testing a variety of by-products from several industry sectors. This review presents several organic waste substrates that can be employed as fuels in MFCs for bioenergy generation and the effect of their usage on power density, COD (chemical oxygen demand) removal, and Coulombic efficiency enhancement. Moreover, a demonstration and comparison of the different types of mixed waste regarding their efficiency for energy generation via MFCs are presented. Future perspectives for manufacturing and cost analysis plans can support scale-up processes fulfilling waste-treatment efficiency and energy-output densities.
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Li D, Shi Y, Sun Y, Wang Z, Kehoe DK, Romeral L, Gao F, Yang L, McCurtin D, Gun’ko YK, Lyons MEG, Xiao L. Microbe-Based Sensor for Long-Term Detection of Urine Glucose. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 22:5340. [PMID: 35891020 PMCID: PMC9320042 DOI: 10.3390/s22145340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The development of a reusable and low-cost urine glucose sensor can benefit the screening and control of diabetes mellitus. This study focused on the feasibility of employing microbial fuel cells (MFC) as a selective glucose sensor for continuous monitoring of glucose levels in human urine. Using MFC technology, a novel cylinder sensor (CS) was developed. It had a quick response time (100 s), a large detection range (0.3-5 mM), and excellent accuracy. More importantly, the CS could last for up to 5 months. The selectivity of the CS was validated by both synthetic and actual diabetes-negative urine samples. It was found that the CS's selectivity could be significantly enhanced by adjusting the concentration of the culture's organic matter. The CS results were comparable to those of a commercial glucose meter (recovery ranged from 93.6% to 127.9%) when the diabetes-positive urine samples were tested. Due to the multiple advantages of high stability, low cost, and high sensitivity over urine test strips, the CS provides a novel and reliable approach for continuous monitoring of urine glucose, which will benefit diabetes assessment and control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dunzhu Li
- Department of Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland; (D.L.); (Y.S.); (Y.S.); (Z.W.); (F.G.); (L.Y.); (D.M.)
| | - Yunhong Shi
- Department of Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland; (D.L.); (Y.S.); (Y.S.); (Z.W.); (F.G.); (L.Y.); (D.M.)
| | - Yifan Sun
- Department of Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland; (D.L.); (Y.S.); (Y.S.); (Z.W.); (F.G.); (L.Y.); (D.M.)
| | - Zeena Wang
- Department of Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland; (D.L.); (Y.S.); (Y.S.); (Z.W.); (F.G.); (L.Y.); (D.M.)
| | - Daniel K. Kehoe
- AMBER Research Centre and Centre for Research on Adaptive Nanostructures and Nanodevices (CRANN), Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland; (D.K.K.); (L.R.); (M.E.G.L.)
| | - Luis Romeral
- AMBER Research Centre and Centre for Research on Adaptive Nanostructures and Nanodevices (CRANN), Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland; (D.K.K.); (L.R.); (M.E.G.L.)
- School of Chemistry, Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland;
| | - Fei Gao
- Department of Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland; (D.L.); (Y.S.); (Y.S.); (Z.W.); (F.G.); (L.Y.); (D.M.)
| | - Luming Yang
- Department of Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland; (D.L.); (Y.S.); (Y.S.); (Z.W.); (F.G.); (L.Y.); (D.M.)
| | - David McCurtin
- Department of Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland; (D.L.); (Y.S.); (Y.S.); (Z.W.); (F.G.); (L.Y.); (D.M.)
- Trinity Centre for Bioengineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Yurii K. Gun’ko
- School of Chemistry, Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland;
- BEACON, Bioeconomy SFI Research Centre, University College Dublin, D07 R2WY Dublin, Ireland
| | - Michael E. G. Lyons
- AMBER Research Centre and Centre for Research on Adaptive Nanostructures and Nanodevices (CRANN), Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland; (D.K.K.); (L.R.); (M.E.G.L.)
- School of Chemistry, Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland;
| | - Liwen Xiao
- Department of Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland; (D.L.); (Y.S.); (Y.S.); (Z.W.); (F.G.); (L.Y.); (D.M.)
- TrinityHaus, Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland
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8
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An J, Feng Y, Zhao Q, Wang X, Liu J, Li N. Electrosynthesis of H 2O 2 through a two-electron oxygen reduction reaction by carbon based catalysts: From mechanism, catalyst design to electrode fabrication. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND ECOTECHNOLOGY 2022; 11:100170. [PMID: 36158761 PMCID: PMC9488048 DOI: 10.1016/j.ese.2022.100170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is an efficient oxidant with multiple uses ranging from chemical synthesis to wastewater treatment. The in-situ H2O2 production via a two-electron oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) will bring H2O2 beyond its current applications. The development of carbon materials offers the hope for obtaining inexpensive and high-performance alternatives to substitute noble-metal catalysts in order to provide a full and comprehensive picture of the current state of the art treatments and inspire new research in this area. Herein, the most up-to-date findings in theoretical predictions, synthetic methodologies, and experimental investigations of carbon-based catalysts are systematically summarized. Various electrode fabrication and modification methods were also introduced and compared, along with our original research on the air-breathing cathode and three-phase interface theory inside a porous electrode. In addition, our current understanding of the challenges, future directions, and suggestions on the carbon-based catalyst designs and electrode fabrication are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingkun An
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Academy of Environment and Ecology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Yujie Feng
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Academy of Environment and Ecology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, No. 73 Huanghe Road, Nangang District, Harbin, 150090, China
| | - Qian Zhao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Xin Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Jia Liu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Academy of Environment and Ecology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Nan Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Academy of Environment and Ecology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China
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Rossi R, Hur AY, Page MA, Thomas AO, Butkiewicz JJ, Jones DW, Baek G, Saikaly PE, Cropek DM, Logan BE. Pilot scale microbial fuel cells using air cathodes for producing electricity while treating wastewater. WATER RESEARCH 2022; 215:118208. [PMID: 35255425 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2022.118208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) can generate electrical energy from the oxidation of the organic matter, but they must be demonstrated at large scales, treat real wastewaters, and show the required performance needed at a site to provide a path forward for this technology. Previous pilot-scale studies of MFC technology have relied on systems with aerated catholytes, which limited energy recovery due to the energy consumed by pumping air into the catholyte. In the present study, we developed, deployed, and tested an 850 L (1400 L total liquid volume) air-cathode MFC treating domestic-type wastewater at a centralized wastewater treatment facility. The wastewater was processed over a hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 12 h through a sequence of 17 brush anode modules (11 m2 total projected anode area) and 16 cathode modules, each constructed using two air-cathodes (0.6 m2 each, total cathode area of 20 m2) with the air side facing each other to allow passive air flow. The MFC effluent was further treated in a biofilter (BF) to decrease the organic matter content. The field test was conducted for over six months to fully characterize the electrochemical and wastewater treatment performance. Wastewater quality as well as electrical energy production were routinely monitored. The power produced over six months by the MFC averaged 0.46 ± 0.35 W (0.043 W m-2 normalized to the cross-sectional area of an anode) at a current of 1.54 ± 0.90 A with a coulombic efficiency of 9%. Approximately 49 ± 15 % of the chemical oxygen demand (COD) was removed in the MFC alone as well as a large amount of the biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) (70%) and total suspended solid (TSS) (48%). In the combined MFC/BF process, up to 91 ± 6 % of the COD and 91 % of the BOD5 were removed as well as certain bacteria (E. coli, 98.9%; fecal coliforms, 99.1%). The average effluent concentration of nitrate was 1.6 ± 2.4 mg L-1, nitrite was 0.17 ± 0.24 mg L-1 and ammonia was 0.4 ± 1.0 mg L-1. The pilot scale reactor presented here is the largest air-cathode MFC ever tested, generating electrical power while treating wastewater.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruggero Rossi
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Andy Y Hur
- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Engineer Research and Development Center, Construction Engineering Research Laboratory, Champaign, IL 61822, USA
| | - Martin A Page
- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Engineer Research and Development Center, Construction Engineering Research Laboratory, Champaign, IL 61822, USA.
| | | | | | - David W Jones
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Gahyun Baek
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Pascal E Saikaly
- Environmental Science and Engineering Program, Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Water Desalination and Reuse Center, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Donald M Cropek
- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Engineer Research and Development Center, Construction Engineering Research Laboratory, Champaign, IL 61822, USA
| | - Bruce E Logan
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA.
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10
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Nabi M, Liang H, Cheng L, Yang W, Gao D. A comprehensive review on the use of conductive materials to improve anaerobic digestion: Focusing on landfill leachate treatment. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 309:114540. [PMID: 35183937 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.114540] [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: 10/09/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Globally, around 70% of waste is disposed of in open dumps or landfill sites, with the leachate generated from these sites containing high concentrations of organic and inorganic compounds, which will adversely affect aquatic environments if discharged without proper treatment. Anaerobic digestion of landfill leachate is an environmentally-friendly method that efficiently converts organic compounds into methane-rich biogas. However, the widespread application of anaerobic digestion has been hindered by poor system stability, low methanogenic activity and a high level of volatile fatty acids (VFAs) accumulation, increasing the operational costs of treatment. Conductive materials can be added to the digester to improve the performance of anaerobic digestion in landfill leachate treatment systems and studies reporting the use of conductive materials for this purpose are hereby thoroughly reviewed. The mechanism of microbial growth and enrichment by conductive materials is discussed, as well as the subsequent effect on waste metabolism, methane production, syntrophic relationships and interspecies electron transfer. The porous structure, specific surface area and conductivity of conductive materials play vital roles in the facilitation of syntrophic relationships between fermentative bacteria and methanogenic archaea. In addition, the mediation of direct interspecies electron transfer (DIET) by conductive materials increases the methane content of biogas from 16% to 60% as compared to indirect interspecies electron transfer (IIET) in conventional anaerobic digestion systems. This review identifies research gaps in the field of material-amended anaerobic systems, suggesting future research directions including investigations into combined chemical-biological treatments for landfill leachate, microbial management using conductive materials for efficient pollutant removal and the capacity for material reuse. Moreover, findings of this review provide a reference for the efficient and large-scale treatment of landfill leachate by anaerobic digestion with conductive materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Nabi
- School of Environment and Energy Engineering, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Hong Liang
- School of Environment and Energy Engineering, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Lang Cheng
- School of Environment and Energy Engineering, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Wenbo Yang
- School of Environment and Energy Engineering, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Dawen Gao
- School of Environment and Energy Engineering, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Beijing, 100044, China.
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11
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An J, Feng Y, Wang N, Zhao Q, Wang X, Li N. Amplifying anti-flooding electrode to fabricate modular electro-fenton system for degradation of antiviral drug lamivudine in wastewater. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 428:128185. [PMID: 35032957 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.128185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The advanced oxidation based on in-situ hydrogen peroxide production using carbon air cathode is very potential for wastewater treatment. However, catalyst flooding and complex assembly patterns are the bottleneck limiting the air cathode to the long-term and large-scale application. In this work, a novel anti-flooding air-breathing cathode (ABC) was prepared by a simple rolling-spraying method with relatively low price commercial materials. The novel method changed the morphology of gas diffusion layer as well as adjusted the hydrophobicity of air side of the catalyst layer. As a result, water-air distribution management was achieved and TPI disequilibrium was prevented. Compare with traditional ABC, the H2O2 yield and current efficiency (CE) of optimized anti-flooding ABC (ABC0.9) increased by 13.5% (941 ± 10 mg·L-1·h-1 with CE of 84% at 30 mA·cm-2), the material cost and fabrication time decreased by 10.1% (2.32 ¥·dm-2, ~0.36 $·dm-2) and 40%. Amplified ABC coupled with Ti/IrO2 anodes were integrated into a modular electrode used for H2O2generation. When the current density (j) increased from 10 to 30 mA·cm-2, the energy cost increased from 0.19 to 0.43 ¥·mol-1 H2O2 (from 0.03 to 0.07 $·mol-1 H2O2). The modular electrode was utilized in a 2 L pre-pilot scale reactor for antiviral drug lamivudine degradation by electro-Fenton (EF) process. 100% of lamivudine and 78.1% of total organic carbon (TOC) were removed within 60 min at 20 mA·cm-2. The susceptible sites on the lamivudine toward hydroxyl radicals were investigated and transformation products (TP) as well as degradation pathway were studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingkun An
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Academy of Environment and ecology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Yujie Feng
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Academy of Environment and ecology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, No. 73 Huanghe Road, Nangang District, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Naiyu Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Academy of Environment and ecology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Qian Zhao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Xin Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Nan Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Academy of Environment and ecology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China.
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12
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Chu L, Cang L, Fang G, Sun Z, Wang X, Zhou D, Gao J. A novel electrokinetic remediation with in-situ generation of H 2O 2 for soil PAHs removal. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 428:128273. [PMID: 35051774 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.128273] [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: 08/28/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Electrokinetic-Fenton (EK-Fenton) technology requires a high dose of H2O2 to produce •OH radicals, which adds a high cost to the remediation process and raises safety concerns during transportation and storage of H2O2. Moreover, the remediation efficiency of the conventional EK-Fenton process is low due to the meaningless consumption of H2O2 on the electrodes and the alkaline environment near the cathode. In this work, a modified CMK3-gas diffusion electrode (CMK3-GDE) is fabricated. This cathode can continuously generate H2O2, and the cumulative H2O2 concentration can reach 0.23 M during 10 days of the test. The utilization of cation exchange membranes (CEMs) efficiently restricts the decomposition of H2O2 on the electrodes and prevents the alkalization of the soil near the cathode, resulting in a 13.7-43.2% increase of the removal efficiency of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). In this new treatment process, PAHs are mainly oxidized into quinones, ketones, alcohols, and small molecule acids, and all these products have lower toxicities than PAHs. The EK-Fenton/CMK3-GDE-CEM system exhibits excellent remediation efficiency for treating PAHs polluted soil, which could be a sustainable, eco-friendly, and low-cost strategy for soil remediation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longgang Chu
- Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Long Cang
- Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Guodong Fang
- Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Zhaoyue Sun
- Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xinghao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Dongmei Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Juan Gao
- Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China.
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13
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Li W, Feng Y, An J, Yunfei L, Zhao Q, Liao C, Wang X, Liu J, Li N. Thermal reduced graphene oxide enhanced in-situ H 2O 2 generation and electrochemical advanced oxidation performance of air-breathing cathode. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 204:112327. [PMID: 34748779 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.112327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Developing highly efficient catalysts with high ORR activity and H2O2 selectivity is an important challenge for producing H2O2 through 2e- oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). In this work, we tuned the reduction degree of graphene oxide by controlling reducing temperature and prepared graphite-TRGO hybrid air breathing cathodes (ABCs). The H2O2 production rate of TRGO-1100 (with highest reduction degree) modified ABC exhibits highest H2O2 generation rate of 20.4 ± 0.8 mg/cm2/h and current efficiency of 94 ± 2%. The charge transfer resistance of TRGO-1100 decreases by 2.5-fold compared with pure graphite cathode. Unreduced GO shows high H2O2 selectivity and low ORR activity, while TRGO shows lower H2O2 selectivity but higher ORR activity. Though the 2e- ORR selectivity of TRGO decreased TRGO with all reduction degrees, the H2O2 production increased in all forming electrodes. Superior performance of TRGO modified ABCs is attributed to high oxygen adsorption and low charge transfer resistance. TRGO possesses super-hydrophobicity and large surface area for oxygen adsorption. Besides, TRGO provides abundant electrochemically active sites to facilitate the electron transfer and formed more mesopores for H2O2 release. Electro-Fenton using TRGO-1100-ABC exhibited great performance for Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) degradation, which removed 66% of tetracycline in 5 min.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Academy of Environment and Ecology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Yujie Feng
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Academy of Environment and Ecology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, No. 73 Huanghe Road, Nangang District, Harbin, 150090, China
| | - Jingkun An
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Academy of Environment and Ecology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Li Yunfei
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Academy of Environment and Ecology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Qian Zhao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Chengmei Liao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Xin Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Jia Liu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Academy of Environment and Ecology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Nan Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Academy of Environment and Ecology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China.
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14
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Yu H, Huang L, Zhang G, Zhou P. Physiological metabolism of electrochemically active bacteria directed by combined acetate and Cd(II) in single-chamber microbial electrolysis cells. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 424:127538. [PMID: 34736191 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.127538] [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: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
It is of great interest to explore physiological metabolism of electrochemically active bacteria (EAB) for combined organics and heavy metals in single-chamber microbial electrolysis cells (MECs). Four pure culture EAB varying degrees responded to the combined acetate (1.0-5.0 g/L) and Cd(II) (20-150 mg/L) at different initial concentrations in the single-chamber MECs, shown as significant relevance of Cd(II) removal (2.57-7.35 mg/L/h) and H2 production (0-0.0011 m3/m3/h) instead of acetate removal (73-130 mg/L/h), to these EAB species at initial Cd(II) below 120 mg/L and initial acetate below 3.0 g/L. A high initial acetate (5.0 g/L) compensated the Cd(II) inhibition and broadened the removal of Cd(II) to 150 mg/L. These EAB physiologically released variable amounts of extracellular polymeric substances with a compositional diversity in response to the changes of initial Cd(II) and circuital current whereas the activities of typical intracellular enzymes were more apparently altered by the initial Cd(II) than the circuital current. These results provide experimental validation of the presence, the metabolic plasticity and the physiological response of these EAB directed by the changes of initial Cd(II) and acetate concentrations in the single-chamber MECs, deepening our understanding of EAB physiological coping strategies in metallurgical microbial electro-ecological cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haihang Yu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Ministry of Education (MOE), School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Liping Huang
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Ministry of Education (MOE), School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China.
| | - Guoquan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Ministry of Education (MOE), School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Peng Zhou
- College of Chemistry, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
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15
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Development of a Bio-Digital Interface Powered by Microbial Fuel Cells. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14031735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
This paper reports the first relatable bio-digital interface powered by microbial fuel cells (MFCs) that was developed to inform the public and introduce the concept of using live microbes as waste processors within our homes and cities. An innovative design for the MFC and peripherals system was built as a digital data generator and bioreactor, with a custom-built energy-harvesting controller that was connected to the system to enable efficient system operation using adaptive dynamic cell reconfiguration and transmit data for the bio-digital interface. This system has accomplished multiple (parallel) tasks such as electricity generation, wastewater treatment and autonomous operation. Moreover, the controller demonstrated that microbial behaviour and consequent system operation can benefit from smart algorithms. In addition to these technical achievements, the bio-digital interface is a site for the production of digital art that aims to gain acceptance from a wider-interest community and potential audiences by showcasing the capabilities of living microorganisms in the context of green technologies.
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16
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Selvasembian R, Mal J, Rani R, Sinha R, Agrahari R, Joshua I, Santhiagu A, Pradhan N. Recent progress in microbial fuel cells for industrial effluent treatment and energy generation: Fundamentals to scale-up application and challenges. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2022; 346:126462. [PMID: 34863847 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2021.126462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) technology have the potential to decarbonize electricity generation and offer an eco-friendly route for treating a wide range of industrial effluents from power generation, petrochemical, tannery, brewery, dairy, textile, pulp/paper industries, and agro-industries. Despite successful laboratory-scale studies, several obstacles limit the MFC technology for real-world applications. This review article aimed to discuss the most recent state-of-the-art information on MFC architecture, design, components, electrode materials, and anodic exoelectrogens to enhance MFC performance and reduce cost. In addition, the article comprehensively reviewed the industrial effluent characteristics, integrating conventional technologies with MFCs for advanced resource recycling with a particular focus on the simultaneous bioelectricity generation and treatment of various industrial effluents. Finally, the article discussed the challenges, opportunities, and future perspectives for the large-scale applications of MFCs for sustainable industrial effluent management and energy recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rangabhashiyam Selvasembian
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur 613401, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Joyabrata Mal
- Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Radha Rani
- Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Rupika Sinha
- Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Roma Agrahari
- Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Ighalo Joshua
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nigeria
| | - Arockiasamy Santhiagu
- School of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology Calicut, Kozhikode, Kerala, India
| | - Nirakar Pradhan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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17
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Yan X, Du Q, Mu Q, Tian L, Wan Y, Liao C, Zhou L, Yan Y, Li N, Logan BE, Wang X. Long-Term Succession Shows Interspecies Competition of Geobacter in Exoelectrogenic Biofilms. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:14928-14937. [PMID: 34676765 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c03010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Geobacter spp. are well-known exoelectrogenic microorganisms that often predominate acetate-fed biofilms in microbial fuel cells (MFCs) and other bioelectrochemical systems (BESs). By using an amplicon sequence variance analysis (at one nucleotide resolution), we observed a succession between two closely related species (98% similarity in 16S RNA), Geobacter sulfurreducens and Geobacter anodireducens, in the long-term studies (20 months) of MFC biofilms. Geobacter spp. predominated in the near-electrode portion of the biofilm, while the outer layer contained an abundance of aerobes, which may have helped to consume oxygen but reduced the relative abundance of Geobacter. Removal of the outer aerobes by norspermidine washing of biofilms revealed a transition from G. sulfurreducens to G. anodireducens. This succession was also found to occur rapidly in co-cultures in BES tests even in the absence of oxygen, suggesting that oxygen was not a critical factor. G. sulfurreducens likely dominated in early biofilms by its relatively larger cell size and production of extracellular polymeric substances (individual advantages), while G. anodireducens later predominated due to greater cell numbers (quantitative advantage). Our findings revealed the interspecies competition in the long-term evolution of Geobacter genus, providing microscopic insights into Geobacter's niche and competitiveness in complex electroactive microbial consortia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuejun Yan
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Qing Du
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Quanhua Mu
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Lili Tian
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Yuxuan Wan
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Chengmei Liao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Lean Zhou
- School of Hydraulic Engineering, Changsha University of Science & Technology, Changsha 410114, China
| | - Yuqing Yan
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Nan Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Bruce E Logan
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, United States
| | - Xin Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
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18
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Cheng Z, Jiang X, Cui Z, Jia H, Wang J. The characteristic of electrode of degradation of bio-electrochemical system based on in-situ ultrasonic monitoring: Biofilm and ion precipitation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 789:147987. [PMID: 34052491 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.147987] [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: 03/14/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Electrode interface behavior is a decisive factor affecting the performance of bio-electrochemical systems, and traditional monitoring methods cannot provide real-time feedback. Therefore, in situ ultrasonic monitoring was performed to continuously monitor the formation process of electroactive biofilm and salt precipitation on the cathode surface. The results showed that biofilm was attached to the cathode surface first. Then, Ca2+ and Mg2+ precipitation gradually invaded the biofilm and accumulated between the cathode and the biofilm. The electrochemical performance of the biofilm adhesion and initial ion invasion process was improved. However, the electrochemical performance of the precipitation layer was decreased, while the operation time increases. In this paper, based on the air cathode scaling analyzing a new method for monitoring the electrode interface of bio-electrochemical system was provided, and the performance was recovered by using reverse electric field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyang Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Separation Membranes and Membrane Processes, TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China; School of Material Science and Engineering, TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China
| | - Xin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Separation Membranes and Membrane Processes, TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China; School of Environmental Science and Engineering, TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China
| | - Zhao Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Separation Membranes and Membrane Processes, TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China; School of Environmental Science and Engineering, TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China
| | - Hui Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Separation Membranes and Membrane Processes, TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China; School of Environmental Science and Engineering, TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China; State Key Laboratory of Biobased Material and Green Papermaking, Qilu University of Technology,Shandong Academy of Science, Jinan 250353, China.
| | - Jie Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Separation Membranes and Membrane Processes, TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China; School of Material Science and Engineering, TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China.
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19
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Cao M, Zhang Y, Zhang Y. Effect of applied voltage on membrane fouling in the amplifying anaerobic electrochemical membrane bioreactor for long-term operation. RSC Adv 2021; 11:31364-31372. [PMID: 35496841 PMCID: PMC9041332 DOI: 10.1039/d1ra05500c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
A novel and amplifying anaerobic electrochemical membrane bioreactor (AnEMBR, R2) was constructed and operated for a long time (204 days) with synthetic glucose solution having an average chemical oxygen demand (COD) of 315 mg L−1, at different applied voltages and room temperatures. More than twice sodium bicarbonate was added for maintaining a pH of around 6.7 in the supernatant of the reactor R2, close to that of a control reactor called anaerobic membrane bioreactor (AnMBR, R1), after 138 days. And the transmembrane pressure (TMP) for the R2 system was only 0.534 bar at the end of operation and 0.615 bar for the R1 system. Although the electrostatic repulsion force contributed to pushing away the pollutants (proteins, polysaccharose and inorganic salt deposits, and so on), more microorganisms adsorbed and accumulated on the membrane surface after the whole operation, which might result in a rapid increase in membrane filtration resistance in the long-term operation. There were much more exoelectrogenic bacteria, mainly Betaproteobacteria, Deltaproteobacteria and Grammaproteobacteria, on the cathode and the dominant methanogen Methanothrix content on the cathode was three times higher than the AnMBR. The study provides an important theoretical foundation for the application of AnEMBR technology in the treatment of low organic strength wastewater. A novel and amplifying anaerobic electrochemical membrane bioreactor was constructed and operated for a long time (204 days) with synthetic glucose solution having an average chemical oxygen demand (COD) of 315 mg L−1, at different applied voltages and room temperatures.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengjing Cao
- Faculty of Architecture, Civil and Transportation Engineering, Beijing University of Technology Beijing 100124 China +86 13693219897.,Key Laboratory of Beijing for Water Quality Science and Water Environment Recovery Engineering, Beijing University of Technology Beijing 100124 China
| | - Yongxiang Zhang
- Faculty of Architecture, Civil and Transportation Engineering, Beijing University of Technology Beijing 100124 China +86 13693219897.,Key Laboratory of Beijing for Water Quality Science and Water Environment Recovery Engineering, Beijing University of Technology Beijing 100124 China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Faculty of Architecture, Civil and Transportation Engineering, Beijing University of Technology Beijing 100124 China +86 13693219897.,Key Laboratory of Beijing for Water Quality Science and Water Environment Recovery Engineering, Beijing University of Technology Beijing 100124 China
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20
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Gajda I, You J, Mendis BA, Greenman J, Ieropoulos IA. Electrosynthesis, modulation, and self-driven electroseparation in microbial fuel cells. iScience 2021; 24:102805. [PMID: 34471855 PMCID: PMC8390849 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.102805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Microbial electrosynthesis (MES) represents a sustainable platform that converts waste into resources, using microorganisms within an electrochemical cell. Traditionally, MES refers to the oxidation/reduction of a reactant at the electrode surface with externally applied potential bias. However, microbial fuel cells (MFCs) generate electrons that can drive electrochemical reactions at otherwise unbiased electrodes. Electrosynthesis in MFCs is driven by microbial oxidation of organic matter releasing electrons that force the migration of cationic species to the cathode. Here, we explore how electrosynthesis can coexist within electricity-producing MFCs thanks to electro-separation of cations, electroosmotic drag, and oxygen reduction within appropriately designed systems. More importantly, we report on a novel method of in situ modulation for electrosynthesis, through additional “pin” electrodes. Several MFC electrosynthesis modulating methods that adjust the electrode potential of each half-cell through the pin electrodes are presented. The innovative concept of electrosynthesis within the electricity producing MFCs provides a multidisciplinary platform converting waste-to-resources in a self-sustainable way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iwona Gajda
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, Frenchay Campus, University of the West of England (UWE Bristol), Bristol BS16 1QY, UK
| | - Jiseon You
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, Frenchay Campus, University of the West of England (UWE Bristol), Bristol BS16 1QY, UK
| | - Buddhi Arjuna Mendis
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, Frenchay Campus, University of the West of England (UWE Bristol), Bristol BS16 1QY, UK
| | - John Greenman
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, Frenchay Campus, University of the West of England (UWE Bristol), Bristol BS16 1QY, UK
| | - Ioannis A Ieropoulos
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, T-Block, Frenchay Campus, University of the West of England (UWE Bristol), Bristol BS16 1QY, UK
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21
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Salmerón I, Oller I, Plakas KV, Malato S. Carbon-based cathodes degradation during electro-Fenton treatment at pilot scale: Changes in H 2O 2 electrogeneration. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 275:129962. [PMID: 33652284 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.129962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Autopsy of carbon-PTFE cathodes was performed by addressing their degradation in a commercial plate-and-frame cell equipped with a Nb-BDD anode. Cell is arranged within an electrochemical pilot plant designed for treating wastewaters by electrochemical Fenton-like processes, thus an efficient electrocatalytic production of H2O2 is necessary to guarantee Fenton's reaction. Significant decrease in H2O2 electrogeneration occurred during pilot plant operation, hindering the efficient performance of Fenton-like processes. Two cathodes were studied, first was operated at pH 3 and second at neutral pH by using EDDS as complexing agent to maintain iron in solution. Electrogenerated H2O2 decreased from 43 mg L-1 to 16 mg L-1 in the first cathode after 50 h of operation and from 49 mg L-1 to 24 mg L-1 in the second one after 26 h of operation. Both were cleaned with 30% (v/v) solution of HCl/water for 24 h and H2O2 production was recovered only in the second cathode (able to generate 39 mg L-1). Autopsy of the cathodes was tackled by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray energy dispersive (EDX), evidencing a strong degradation of first cathode surface and iron oxide inlays in second one due to the decomposition of Fe3+:EDDS and consequent iron precipitation at neutral pH.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Salmerón
- Plataforma Solar de Almería, Ctra Senés Km 4, 04200, Tabernas, Almería, Spain
| | - I Oller
- Plataforma Solar de Almería, Ctra Senés Km 4, 04200, Tabernas, Almería, Spain.
| | - K V Plakas
- Chemical Process and Energy Resources Institute, Centre for Research and Technology - Hellas (CERTH), 6th Km Charilaou-Thermi Road, Thermi, Thessaloniki, GR 57001, Greece
| | - S Malato
- Plataforma Solar de Almería, Ctra Senés Km 4, 04200, Tabernas, Almería, Spain
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22
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Tabassum N, Islam N, Ahmed S. Progress in microbial fuel cells for sustainable management of industrial effluents. Process Biochem 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.procbio.2021.03.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
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23
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Feng Y, Li W, An J, Zhao Q, Wang X, Liu J, He W, Li N. Graphene family for hydrogen peroxide production in electrochemical system. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 769:144491. [PMID: 33736245 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.144491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 11/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The development of carbon-based materials to catalyze two-electron (2e-) pathway of oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) offers great potential for hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production. As a class of novel two-dimensional (2D) carbon materials, graphene and its derivatives have raised increasing attention as excellent noble-metal-free catalysts in 2e ORR due to their unique structure, physical and chemical properties. This review focuses on the synthesis of main graphene family members and graphene based electrodes, as well as their applications for H2O2 generation in electrochemical systems. We describe the functions of the graphene family in electrochemical systems, such as accelerating electron transfer and increasing oxygen transfer for cathodes in electrochemical systems, aiming to reveal the enhancement mechanisms of graphene and its derivatives on H2O2 production. Furthermore, the challenges and prospects for graphene family used as catalyst for H2O2 production in the future are also proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Feng
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Academy of Environment and Ecology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, No. 73 Huanghe Road, Nangang District, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Wen Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Academy of Environment and Ecology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Jingkun An
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Academy of Environment and Ecology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Qian Zhao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Xin Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jia Liu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Academy of Environment and Ecology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Weihua He
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Academy of Environment and Ecology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Nan Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Academy of Environment and Ecology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China.
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Wu Y, Wang C, Wang S, An J, Liang D, Zhao Q, Tian L, Wu Y, Wang X, Li N. Graphite accelerate dissimilatory iron reduction and vivianite crystal enlargement. WATER RESEARCH 2021; 189:116663. [PMID: 33307376 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2020.116663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Biomineralized vivianite induced by dissimilatory iron reduction bacteria (DIRB) has received increasing attention because it alleviates phosphorus crisis and phosphorus pollution simultaneously. However, the relatively small crystal size and low Fe(III) reduction rate restrict the separation and recovery of vivianite. In this study, graphite was selected as additive to enhance vivianite biomineralization with soluble ferric citrate and insoluble hematite as two representative electron acceptors. As soluble ferric citrate provided abundant accessible electron acceptors, relatively inconspicuous increase (lower than 7%) was observed for graphite on vivianite formation while inoculated with raw sewage or DIRB. In contrast, graphite considerably increased vivianite formation efficiency by 23% in insoluble hematite inoculated with raw sewage. The graphite promotion on vivianite formation in hematite batch was magnified to 70% by DIRB. Dosing hematite inhibited the supply of electron acceptors, while conductive graphite promoted the electrical connection between minerals and DIRB, thus improved the Fe(III) reduction rate and efficiency. In addition, secondary minerals in hematite exhibited a larger aspect ratio and tended to aggregate on graphite. Graphite enlarged the vivianite size in hematite from 10 µm to 90 µm due to aggregation. Enhancing dissimilatory iron reduction (DIR) rate of iron oxides and enlarging crystal size provide new insights for vivianite formation and separation during wastewater treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 35 Yaguan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Cong Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 35 Yaguan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Shu Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 35 Yaguan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jingkun An
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 35 Yaguan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Danhui Liang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 35 Yaguan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Qian Zhao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Lili Tian
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Yue Wu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Xin Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Nan Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 35 Yaguan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China.
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Liang D, Li N, An J, Ma J, Wu Y, Liu H. Fenton-based technologies as efficient advanced oxidation processes for microcystin-LR degradation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 753:141809. [PMID: 33207450 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, the safety and ecology threat of cyanobacterial burst has drawn wide concern, especially the release of toxic microcystin-LR (MC-LR). To break through the bottleneck of uncomplete MC-LR degradation by conventional physical-chemistry methods, Fenton-based advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) developed rapidly due to striking degradation efficiency through the potent hydroxyl radicals (HO·) oxidation. Herein, a comprehensive overview is presented on the recent achievements of the various Fenton-based technologies (including conventional Fenton, photo-Fenton, electro-Fenton, ozone-Fenton and sono-Fenton) for MC-LR degradation. In particular, the comparisons between various Fenton-based technologies about advantages and drawbacks are discussed. Based on analyzing the degradation intermediates and pathways, the destruction of Adda chain via hydroxylation was confirmed to be essential for detoxification of MC-LR. Roles of influencing factors such as MC-LR initial concentration, dosages of the catalyst and oxidant, environment alkalinity, natural organic matters (NOMs) as well as other inorganic ions are specifically summarized. This Review also gave special emphasis on technique optimization trends for Fenton application of MC-LR degradation, as well as key challenges and future opportunities in this fast developing field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danhui Liang
- Tianjin Key Lab of Indoor Air Environmental Quality Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Nan Li
- Tianjin Key Lab of Indoor Air Environmental Quality Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Jingkun An
- Tianjin Key Lab of Indoor Air Environmental Quality Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Jian Ma
- Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 72 Wenhua Road, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, China
| | - Yu Wu
- Tianjin Key Lab of Indoor Air Environmental Quality Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Hongbo Liu
- Tianjin Key Lab of Indoor Air Environmental Quality Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China.
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26
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Li Y, Yang W, Liu X, Guan W, Zhang E, Shi X, Zhang X, Wang X, Mao X. Diffusion-layer-free air cathode based on ionic conductive hydrogel for microbial fuel cells. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 743:140836. [PMID: 32758853 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.140836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 06/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
High hydraulic pressure in air-cathode microbial fuel cells (MFCs) can lead to severe cathodic water leakage and power reduction, thereby hindering the practical applications of MFCs. In this study, an alternative air cathode without a diffusion layer was developed using a cross-linked hydrogel, oxidized konjac glucomannan/2-hydroxypropytrimethyl ammonium chloride chitosan (OKH), for ion bridging. The cathode was placed horizontally to avoid hydraulic pressure on its surface. Ion transportation was sustained with a minimal OKH hydrogel loading of 10 mg/cm2. A maximum power density of 1.0 ± 0.04 W/m2 was achieved, which was only slightly lower than the 1.28 ± 0.02 W/m2 of common air cathodes. Moreover, the cost of the OKH hydrogel is only $0.12/m2, which can reduce ~85% of the cathode cost without using the advanced polyvinylidene fluoride diffusion layer. Therefore, the development of this new diffusion-layer-free air cathode using conductive ionic hydrogel provides a low-cost strategy for stable MFC operation, thereby demonstrating great potential for practical applications of MFC technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Li
- School of Resource and Environmental Sciences, Hubei International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Sustainable Resource and Energy, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, PR China
| | - Wulin Yang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, United States
| | - Xue Liu
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Weikai Guan
- School of Resource and Environmental Sciences, Hubei International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Sustainable Resource and Energy, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, PR China
| | - Enren Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou City 225002, PR China
| | - Xiaowen Shi
- School of Resource and Environmental Sciences, Hubei International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Sustainable Resource and Energy, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, PR China
| | - Xinquan Zhang
- School of Resource and Environmental Sciences, Hubei International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Sustainable Resource and Energy, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, PR China
| | - Xu Wang
- School of Resource and Environmental Sciences, Hubei International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Sustainable Resource and Energy, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, PR China.
| | - Xuhui Mao
- School of Resource and Environmental Sciences, Hubei International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Sustainable Resource and Energy, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, PR China
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27
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An J, Li N, Wu Y, Wang S, Liao C, Zhao Q, Zhou L, Li T, Wang X, Feng Y. Revealing Decay Mechanisms of H 2O 2-Based Electrochemical Advanced Oxidation Processes after Long-Term Operation for Phenol Degradation. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:10916-10925. [PMID: 32786563 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c03233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-based electrochemical advanced oxidation processes (EAOPs) have been widely attempted for various wastewater treatments. So far, stability tests of EAOPs are rarely addressed and the decay mechanism is still unclear. Here, three H2O2-based EAOP systems (electro-Fenton, photoelectro-Fenton, and photo+ electro-generated H2O2) were built for phenol degradation. More than 97% phenol was removed in all three EAOPs in 1 h at 10 mA·cm-2. As a key component in EAOPs, the cathodic H2O2 productivity is directly related to the performance of the system. We for the first time systematically investigated the decay mechanisms of the active cathode by operating the cathodes under multiple conditions over 200 h. Compared with the fresh cathode (H2O2 yield of 312 ± 22 mg·L-1·h-1 with a current efficiency of 84 ± 5% at 10 mA·cm-2), the performance of the cathode for H2O2 synthesis alone decayed by only 17.8%, whereas the H2O2 yields of cathodes operated in photoelectro-generated H2O2, electro-Fenton, and photoelectro-Fenton systems decayed by 60.0, 90.1, and 89.6%, respectively, with the synergistic effect of salt precipitation, •OH erosion, organic contamination, and optional Fe contamination. The lower current decay of 16.1-32.3% in the electrochemical tests manifested that the cathodes did not lose activity severely. Therefore, the significant decrease of H2O2 yield was because the active sites were altered to catalyze the four-electron oxygen reduction reaction, which was induced by the long-term erosion of •OH. Our findings provided new insights into cathode performance decay, offering significant information for the improvement of cathodic longevity in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingkun An
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China
- Academy of Environment and Ecology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Nan Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China
- Academy of Environment and Ecology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Yu Wu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Shu Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Chengmei Liao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Qian Zhao
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Lean Zhou
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Tian Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Xin Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Yujie Feng
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China
- Academy of Environment and Ecology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, No. 73 Huanghe Road, Nangang District, Harbin 150090, China
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28
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Cui H, Wang J, Cai X, Li Z, Liu B, Xing D. Accelerating nutrient release and pathogen inactivation from human waste by different pretreatment methods. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 733:139105. [PMID: 32447076 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.139105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The limitation of hydrolysis and the health risks from pathogenic microorganisms are challenges in the treatment of human waste for volume reduction and nutrient recovery. In this study, potassium ferrate (PF), peroxymonosulfate (PMS), and PF combined with peroxymonosulfate (PMS+ PF) were used as pretreatment or co-treatment methods to enhance nutrient release and control pathogenic microorganisms in human waste. The PF pretreatment was the most effective regarding hydrolysis and organic matter release. The largest difference (D-value) in the soluble chemical oxygen demand (3117.0 mg/L) between the control and the treatment after 120 min was observed for the PF pretreatment, followed by the alkaline (ALK) pretreatment (1525.0 mg/L), the PF + PMS pretreatment (1169.3 mg/L), and the PMS pretreatment (1020.6 mg/L). The PF pre-treated waste exhibited the highest volatile solids reduction of 79.2% after 120 min compared with 15.0% reduction of the untreated waste, as well as the highest polysaccharide release, with a D-value of 198.5 mg/L. All pretreatments exhibited inactivation of pathogenic bacteria and helminths eggs; however, the PF pretreatment was the most efficient method to suppress pathogenic micrograms, with a 3.5 log (N/N0) decrease in the number of total coliforms. The PF pretreatment and PMS + PF co-treatment both exhibited the good performance regarding nitrogen release, including soluble protein and ammonium. The maximum D-value of the total soluble nitrogen was 372.8 mg/L for the PF + PMS co-treatment. The maximum D-value of soluble protein was 156.2 mg/L for the ALK pretreatment. The results indicated that the PF pretreatment was the most effective method for disintegrating human waste, thus providing a new method for safe and rapid reduction of human waste, as well as nutrient release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Jing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Xiaoyu Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Zhen Li
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Bingfeng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Defeng Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China.
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29
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Wang S, Wu Y, An J, Liang D, Tian L, Zhou L, Wang X, Li N. Geobacter Autogenically Secretes Fulvic Acid to Facilitate the Dissimilated Iron Reduction and Vivianite Recovery. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:10850-10858. [PMID: 32786578 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c01404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Biosynthetic organic matters, such as humus, play important roles in iron and phosphorus cycling in soil and aquatic systems. As an important member of humus, fulvic acid (FA) is ubiquitous in different environmental media, such as water, soil, and sediments. In this study, we fabricated the network among phosphate supply, metabolism pathway of FA, iron reduction, and vivianite recovery at the batch scale. Both the vivianite recovery performance and the content of biosynthetic FA were positively related to the phosphorus dosage. The highest vivianite formation efficiency of 53% was obtained in the Fe/P = 1 batch, accompanied with the maximal iron reduction rate of 2.29 mM·day-1, which was 2.66 times higher than that of the Fe/P = 3 batch. Simultaneously, the highest content of FA was detected in extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) of the Fe/P = 1 batch. Metabolome analysis revealed that FA biosynthesis was mainly relevant to tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, amino acid metabolism, and purine metabolism, with glutamate and aspartate as the precursors. Sufficient phosphate stimulated the FA biosynthesis by modulating the biosynthesis and transformation of glutamate and aspartate. After adding 10 mg L-1 FA in Fe/P = 1 batch, the maximal iron reduction rate increase by 35%, as well as 12% improvement of the vivianite formation efficiency. Transcriptome revealed that FA promotes iron reduction and vivianite recovery by upregulating the expression of metal ion binding-, flagella-, and electron transfer activity-related genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 35 Yaguan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Yu Wu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 35 Yaguan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jingkun An
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 35 Yaguan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Danhui Liang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 35 Yaguan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Lili Tian
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Lean Zhou
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Xin Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Nan Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 35 Yaguan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
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30
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Zhou L, Jiang Y, Wan Y, Liu X, Zhou H, Li W, Li N, Wang X. Electron Flow Shifts from Anode Respiration to Nitrate Reduction During Electroactive Biofilm Thickening. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:9593-9600. [PMID: 32667788 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c01343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
As electrons generated through substrate oxidation compete with electrodes, dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium (DNRA), denitrification in bioelectrochemical systems in the presence of nitrate, and nitrate reduction through an electroactive biofilm (EAB) are unpredictable. We find that pathways of nitrate reduction are related to EAB thickness and that 76 ± 2 μm is the critical thickness of a biofilm at which both the inner and outer layers simultaneously include DNRA, leading to a maximum level of DNRA efficiency of 42%. Fractions of electrons flowing during nitrate reduction are relatively stable, but their distributions between DNRA and denitrification vary with biofilm thickness. Electrons prefer denitrification in an EAB that is 66 ± 2 μm, while DNRA reversely surpasses denitrification when the thickness increases in the range of 76 ± 2 to 210 ± 2 μm. Biofilm thickening enhances the DNRA of all biofilms close to solution, where nirK remains constant and nrfA is significantly upregulated. However, nrfA is downregulated in layers close to the electrode when the biofilm is thicker than 76 ± 2 μm. These findings reveal the spatially heterogeneous reduction of nitrate in thick EABs, highlighting the importance of biofilm thickness to the regulation of end products of nitrate reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lean Zhou
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Yongheng Jiang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Yuxuan Wan
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Xinning Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Haonan Zhou
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Wenqi Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Nan Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Xin Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
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Liu W, Jia H, Jiang X, Wu Y, Wang J. The new insight about electrode interface behaviour via in situ ultrasound three-dimensional representation monitoring based on a bio-electrochemical system. Bioelectrochemistry 2020; 136:107599. [PMID: 32711364 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2020.107599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Behaviour of the electrode interface is a determining factor that affects the performance of a bio-electrochemical system (BES). Examples include the formation of an electroactive biofilm, electrode degradation and renewal. However, underlying mechanisms are unclear, and traditional approaches make it difficult to achieve in situ monitoring. In this study, a novel technology using ultrasound three-dimensional representation (UTDR) was used to track in situ electrode interface behaviour based on the correspondence between acoustic and electrical signals. A series of wavelet analyses showed that the formation of an electroactive biofilm is a lengthy process with multiple physiological steps, and biofilm thickness increased by approximately 600 μm after 40 days of operation. At the same time, directional migration of Ca2+, Mg2+ confirmed acceleration of the salting out on the cathode, which forms a compacted structure with the biological layer. Furthermore, UTDR combined with electrochemical methods allowed for comprehensive evaluation of AC impact, and indicated that AC (1 Hz, 20 V) could effectively desquamate the contaminating solids and restore power density to 93.4% of initial. These results show that UTDR is a sensitive and effective method for revealing microscopic changes on the electrode surface, which gives it potential wide applicability to interfacial processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Separation Membrane and Membrane Processes, Tianjin TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China; School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, 73 Huanghe Road, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Hui Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Separation Membrane and Membrane Processes, Tianjin TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China; School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China
| | - Xin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Separation Membrane and Membrane Processes, Tianjin TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China; School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China
| | - Yun Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Separation Membrane and Membrane Processes, Tianjin TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China; School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China
| | - Jie Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Separation Membrane and Membrane Processes, Tianjin TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China; School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin TianGong University, Tianjin 300387, China.
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32
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Gajda I, Obata O, Jose Salar-Garcia M, Greenman J, Ieropoulos IA. Long-term bio-power of ceramic microbial fuel cells in individual and stacked configurations. Bioelectrochemistry 2020; 133:107459. [PMID: 32126486 PMCID: PMC7132540 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2020.107459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Revised: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In order to improve the potential of Microbial Fuel Cells (MFCs) as an applicable technology, the main challenge is to engineer practical systems for bioenergy production at larger scales and to test how the prototypes withstand the challenges occurring during the prolonged operation under constant feeding regime with real waste stream. This work presents the performance assessment of low-cost ceramic MFCs in the individual, stacked (modular) and modular cascade (3 modules) configurations during long term operation up to 19 months, utilising neat human urine as feedstock. During 1 year, the performance of the individual MFC units reached up to 1.56 mW (22.3 W/m3), exhibiting only 20% power loss on day 350 which was significantly smaller in comparison to conventional proton or cation exchange membranes. The stack module comprising 22 MFCs reached up to 21.4 mW (11.9 W/m3) showing power recovery to the initial output levels after 580 days, whereas the 3-module cascade reached up to 75 mW (13.9 W/m3) of power, showing 20% power loss on day 446. In terms of chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal, the 3-module cascade configuration achieved a cumulative reduction of >92%, which is higher than that observed in the single module (56%).
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Affiliation(s)
- Iwona Gajda
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, University of the West of England, BS16 1QY, UK.
| | - Oluwatosin Obata
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, University of the West of England, BS16 1QY, UK
| | - Maria Jose Salar-Garcia
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, University of the West of England, BS16 1QY, UK
| | - John Greenman
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, University of the West of England, BS16 1QY, UK; Centre For Research in Biosciences, University of the West of England, BS16 1QY, UK
| | - Ioannis A Ieropoulos
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, University of the West of England, BS16 1QY, UK; Centre For Research in Biosciences, University of the West of England, BS16 1QY, UK.
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33
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Atif M, Karim RA, Khaliq Z, Bongiovanni R. Facile Oxidation Approach to Amend Surface Chemistry of Carbon Particles for Augmented Dispersion in Epoxy Matrix. RUSS J APPL CHEM+ 2020. [DOI: 10.1134/s1070427220020214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Wu Y, Wang S, Liang D, Li N. Conductive materials in anaerobic digestion: From mechanism to application. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2020; 298:122403. [PMID: 31761622 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2019.122403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Anaerobic digestion (AD) is an effective strategy combined advantages of maintaining the global carbon flux and efficient energy conversion. Various conductive materials (CMs) have been applied in anaerobic digesters to improve the performance of anaerobic fermentation and methanogenesis, including carbon-based CMs and metal-based CMs. Generally, CMs facilitated the AD thermodynamically and kinetically because they triggered more efficient syntrophic metabolism to increase electron capture capability and accelerate reaction rate as well as enhance the performance of AD stages (hydrolysis-acidification, methanogenesis). Besides, adding CMs into anaerobic digester is benefit to dealing with the deteriorating AD, which induced from temperature variation, acidified working condition, higher H2 partial pressure, etc. However, few CMs exhibited inhibition on AD, including ferrihydrite, magnesium oxide, silver nanoparticles and carbon black. Inhibition comes from a series of complex factors, such as substrate competition, direct inhibition from Fe(III), Fe(III) reduction of methanogens, toxic effects to microorganisms and mass transfer limitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 135 Yaguan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Shu Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 135 Yaguan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Danhui Liang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 135 Yaguan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Nan Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 135 Yaguan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China.
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35
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Gao N, Fan Y, Wang L, Long F, Deng D, Liu H. Accelerated tests for evaluating the air-cathode aging in microbial fuel cells. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2020; 297:122479. [PMID: 31813816 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2019.122479] [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: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Air-cathode stability is a key factor affecting the feasibility of microbial fuel cells (MFCs) in applications. However, there is no quick and effective method to evaluate the robustness and durability of the MFC air cathodes. In this study, a three-phase decrease of power density was observed in multiple MFCs that have been operated for about a year. Quantification of the contributions of cathode biofilm and salt accumulation to the current decrease suggested that the biofouling was the major contributor to the cathode aging during the first 200 days, and salt accumulation gradually outpaced biofouling afterward. An accelerated test method was then developed using fast-growing Escherichia coli, simulated soluble microbial products (SMPs), and a concentrated medium solution. Using this method, the cathode aging can be evaluated quickly within hours/days compared to over a year of operation, benefiting the development of high-performing and durable cathode materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ningshengjie Gao
- Department of Biological and Ecological Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis 97331, USA
| | - Yanzhen Fan
- Waste2watergy LLC, 3830 NW Boxwood Dr, Corvallis 97330, USA
| | - Luguang Wang
- Department of Biological and Ecological Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis 97331, USA
| | - Fei Long
- Department of Biological and Ecological Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis 97331, USA
| | - Dezhong Deng
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis 97331, USA
| | - Hong Liu
- Department of Biological and Ecological Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis 97331, USA.
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36
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Hiegemann H, Littfinski T, Krimmler S, Lübken M, Klein D, Schmelz KG, Ooms K, Pant D, Wichern M. Performance and inorganic fouling of a submergible 255 L prototype microbial fuel cell module during continuous long-term operation with real municipal wastewater under practical conditions. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2019; 294:122227. [PMID: 31610498 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2019.122227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2019] [Revised: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
A submergible 255 L prototype MFC module was operated under practical conditions with municipal wastewater having a large share in industrial discharges for 98 days to investigate the performance of two of the largest, ever investigated multi-panel stainless steel/activated carbon air cathodes (85 × 85 cm). At a flow rate of 144 L/d, power density of 78 mW/m2Cat (317 mW/m3) and COD, TSS and TN removal of 41 ± 16 %, 36 ± 16 % and 18 ± 14 %, respectively, were reached. Observed Coulombic efficiency and substrate-specific energy recovery were 29.5 ± 14 % and 0.184 ± 0.125 kWhel/kgCOD,deg, respectively. High salt content of wastewater (TDS = 2.8 g/L) led to severe inorganic fouling causing a drastic decline in power output and energy recovery of more than 90 % in the course of experiments. Mechanical cleaning of the cathodes restored only 22 % (17 mW/m2Cat) of the power output and did not improve nutrient removal or energy recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heinz Hiegemann
- Institute of Urban Water Management and Environmental Engineering, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Fakultät für Bau- und Umweltingenieurwissenschaften, Universitätsstraße 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany; Emschergenossenschaft / Lippeverband, Kronprinzenstr. 24, 45128 Essen, Germany.
| | - Tobias Littfinski
- Institute of Urban Water Management and Environmental Engineering, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Fakultät für Bau- und Umweltingenieurwissenschaften, Universitätsstraße 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany
| | - Stefan Krimmler
- Institute of Urban Water Management and Environmental Engineering, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Fakultät für Bau- und Umweltingenieurwissenschaften, Universitätsstraße 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany
| | - Manfred Lübken
- Institute of Urban Water Management and Environmental Engineering, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Fakultät für Bau- und Umweltingenieurwissenschaften, Universitätsstraße 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany
| | - Daniel Klein
- Emschergenossenschaft / Lippeverband, Kronprinzenstr. 24, 45128 Essen, Germany
| | - Karl-Georg Schmelz
- Emschergenossenschaft / Lippeverband, Kronprinzenstr. 24, 45128 Essen, Germany
| | - Kristoffer Ooms
- Research Institute for Water and Waste Management at RWTH Aachen (FiW) e.V., Kackertstr. 15 - 17, 52072 Aachen, Germany
| | - Deepak Pant
- Separation & Conversion Technology, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), Boeretang 200, Mol 2400, Belgium
| | - Marc Wichern
- Institute of Urban Water Management and Environmental Engineering, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Fakultät für Bau- und Umweltingenieurwissenschaften, Universitätsstraße 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany
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37
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Al Lawati MJ, Jafary T, Baawain MS, Al-Mamun A. A mini review on biofouling on air cathode of single chamber microbial fuel cell; prevention and mitigation strategies. BIOCATALYSIS AND AGRICULTURAL BIOTECHNOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcab.2019.101370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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38
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An J, Li N, Zhao Q, Qiao Y, Wang S, Liao C, Zhou L, Li T, Wang X, Feng Y. Highly efficient electro-generation of H 2O 2 by adjusting liquid-gas-solid three phase interfaces of porous carbonaceous cathode during oxygen reduction reaction. WATER RESEARCH 2019; 164:114933. [PMID: 31382153 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2019.114933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Equilibrium of three reactants (oxygen, proton and electron) in oxygen reduction reaction at large current flux is necessary for highly efficient electro-generation of H2O2. In this work, we investigated reactants equilibrium and H2O2 electrochemical production in liquid-gas-solid three phase interfaces on rolling cathodes with high electroactive area. Electrocatalytic reaction accelerated the electrolyte intrusion into hydrophobic porous catalyst layer for higher electroactive surface area, resulting in a 21% increase of H2O2 yield at 15 mA cm-2. Air aerated cathode submerged in air/O2 aeration solution was unable to produce H2O2 efficiently due to the lack of O2 in three phase interfaces (TPIs), especially at current density > 2.5 mA cm-2. For air breathing cathode, stable TPIs inside the active sites was created by addition of gas diffusion layer, to increase H2O2 production from 11 ± 2 to 172 ± 11 mg L-1 h-1 at 15 mA cm-2. Pressurized air flow application enhanced both oxygen supply and H2O2 departure transfer to obtain a high H2O2 production of 461 ± 11 mg L-1 h-1 with CE of 89 ± 2% at 35 mA cm-2, 45% higher than passive gas transfer systems. Our findings provided a new insight of carbonaceous air cathode performance in producing H2O2, providing important information for the practical application and amplification of cathodes in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingkun An
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China; Academy of Environment and Ecology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Nan Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China; Academy of Environment and Ecology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China.
| | - Qian Zhao
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Yujie Qiao
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Shu Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Chengmei Liao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Lean Zhou
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Tian Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Xin Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Yujie Feng
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China; Academy of Environment and Ecology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, No. 73 Huanghe Road, Nangang District, Harbin, 150090, China.
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39
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Chen W, Liu Z, Li Y, Jiang K, Hou J, Lou X, Xing X, Liao Q, Zhu X. A novel stainless steel fiber felt/Pd nanocatalysts electrode for efficient ORR in air-cathode microbial fuel cells. Electrochim Acta 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2019.134862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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40
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Zhao N, Treu L, Angelidaki I, Zhang Y. Exoelectrogenic Anaerobic Granular Sludge for Simultaneous Electricity Generation and Wastewater Treatment. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2019; 53:12130-12140. [PMID: 31507167 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.9b03395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
A thick and electroactive biofilm is the key to the successful development of microbial electrochemical systems and technologies (METs). In this study, intact anaerobic granular sludge (AGS), which is a spherical and dense microbial association, was successfully demonstrated as a novel and efficient biocatalyst in METs such as microbial fuel cells. Three different strategies were explored to shift the microbial composition of AGS from methanogenic to exoelectrogenic microbes, including varying the external resistance and organic loading and manipulating the anode potential. Among all the strategies, only with positive anode potential, AGS was successfully shifted from methanogenic to exoelectrogenic conditions, as indicated by the significantly high current response (10.32 A/m2) and 100% removal of organic carbon from wastewater. Moreover, the AGS bioanode showed no significant decrease in current generation and organic removal at pH 5, indicating good tolerance of AGS to acidic conditions. Finally, 16S rRNA sequencing revealed the enrichment of exoelectrogens and inhibition of methanogens in the microbial community of AGS after anode potential control. This study provides a proof of concept for extracting electrical energy from organic wastes by exoelectrogenic AGS along with simultaneous wastewater treatment and meanwhile opens up a new paradigm to create an efficient and cost-effective exoelectrogenic biocatalyst for boosting the industrial application of METs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nannan Zhao
- Department of Environmental Engineering , Technical University of Denmark , DK-2800 Lyngby , Denmark
| | - Laura Treu
- Department of Environmental Engineering , Technical University of Denmark , DK-2800 Lyngby , Denmark
| | - Irini Angelidaki
- Department of Environmental Engineering , Technical University of Denmark , DK-2800 Lyngby , Denmark
| | - Yifeng Zhang
- Department of Environmental Engineering , Technical University of Denmark , DK-2800 Lyngby , Denmark
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41
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Rossi R, Wang X, Yang W, Logan BE. Impact of cleaning procedures on restoring cathode performance for microbial fuel cells treating domestic wastewater. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2019; 290:121759. [PMID: 31323515 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2019.121759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Revised: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Degradation of cathode performance over time is one of the major drawbacks in applications of microbial fuel cells (MFCs) for wastewater treatment. Over a two month period the resistance of air cathodes (RCt) with a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) diffusion layer increased of 111% from 70 ± 10 mΩ m2 to 148 ± 32 mΩ m2. Soaking the cathodes in hydrochloric acid (100 mM HCl) restored cathode performance to RCt = 74 ± 17 mΩ m2. Steam, ethanol, or sodium hydroxide treatment produced only a small change in performance, and slightly increased RCt. With a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) diffusion layer on the cathodes, RCt increased from 54 ± 14 mΩ m2 to 342 ± 142 mΩ m2 after two months of operation. The acid concentration was critical for effectiveness in cleaning, as HCl (100 mM) decreased RCt to 28 ± 8 mΩ m2. A lower concentration of HCl (<1 mM) showed no improvement, and vinegar (5% acetic acid) produced 48 ± 4 mΩ m2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruggero Rossi
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA; School of Resource and Environmental Sciences, Hubei International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Sustainable Resource and Energy, Wuhan University, 129 Luoyu Road, Wuhan 430079, PR China
| | - Wulin Yang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Bruce E Logan
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA.
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42
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Zhao Q, An J, Wang S, Qiao Y, Liao C, Wang C, Wang X, Li N. Superhydrophobic Air-Breathing Cathode for Efficient Hydrogen Peroxide Generation through Two-Electron Pathway Oxygen Reduction Reaction. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2019; 11:35410-35419. [PMID: 31465198 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b09942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Electrochemical catalysis of carbon-based material via two-electron pathway oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) offers great potential for in situ hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production. In this work, we tuned catalyst mesostructure and hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity by adjusting polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) content in graphite/carbon black/PTFE hybrid catalyst layer (CL), aimed to improving the two-electron ORR activity for efficient H2O2 generation. As the only superhydrophobic CL with initiating contact angles of 141.11°, PTFE0.57 obtained the highest H2O2 yield of 3005 ± 58 mg L-1 h-1 (at 25 mA cm-2) and highest current efficiency (CE) of 84% (at 20 mA cm-2). Rotating ring disk electrode (RRDE) results demonstrated that less PTFE content in CLs results in less electrons transferred and better selectivity toward two-electron ORR. Though the highest H2 concentration (2 μmol L-1 at 25 mA cm-2) was monitored from PTFE0.57 which contained the lowest PTFE, the CE decreased inversely with increasing content of PTFE, which proved that the H2O2 decomposition reaction was the major side reaction. Higher PTFE content increased the hydrophilicity of CL for excessive H+ and insufficient O2 diffusion, which induced H2O2 decomposition into H2O. Simultaneously, the electroactive surface area of CLs decreased with higher PTFE content, from 0.0041 m2 g-1 of PTFE0.57 to 0.0019 m2 g-1 of PTFE4.56. Besides, higher PTFE content in CL leads to the increase of total impedance (from 14.5 Ω of PTFE0.57 to 18.3 Ω of PTFE4.56), which further hinders the electron transfer and ORR activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Zhao
- Tianjin Key Lab Indoor Air Environmental Quality Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering , Tianjin University , No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District , Tianjin 300072 , China
| | - Jingkun An
- Tianjin Key Lab Indoor Air Environmental Quality Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering , Tianjin University , No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District , Tianjin 300072 , China
| | - Shu Wang
- Tianjin Key Lab Indoor Air Environmental Quality Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering , Tianjin University , No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District , Tianjin 300072 , China
| | - Yujie Qiao
- Tianjin Key Lab Indoor Air Environmental Quality Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering , Tianjin University , No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District , Tianjin 300072 , China
| | - Chengmei Liao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control , Nankai University , No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District , Tianjin 300350 , China
| | - Cong Wang
- Tianjin Key Lab Indoor Air Environmental Quality Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering , Tianjin University , No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District , Tianjin 300072 , China
| | - Xin Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control , Nankai University , No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District , Tianjin 300350 , China
| | - Nan Li
- Tianjin Key Lab Indoor Air Environmental Quality Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering , Tianjin University , No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District , Tianjin 300072 , China
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43
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Du Q, Cheng T, Liu Y, Li N, Wang X. The use of natural hierarchical porous carbon from Artemia cyst shells alleviates power decay in activated carbon air-cathode. Electrochim Acta 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2019.05.098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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44
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Noori MT, Ghangrekar MM, Mukherjee CK, Min B. Biofouling effects on the performance of microbial fuel cells and recent advances in biotechnological and chemical strategies for mitigation. Biotechnol Adv 2019; 37:107420. [PMID: 31344446 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2019.107420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2019] [Revised: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The occurrence of biofouling in MFC can cause severe problems such as hindering proton transfer and increasing the ohmic and charge transfer resistance of cathodes, which results in a rapid decline in performance of MFC. This is one of the main reasons why scaling-up of MFCs has not yet been successfully accomplished. The present review article is a wide-ranging attempt to provide insights to the biofouling mechanisms on surfaces of MFC, mainly on proton exchange membranes and cathodes, and their effects on performance of MFC based on theoretical and practical evidence. Various biofouling mitigation techniques for membranes are discussed, including preparation of antifouling composite membranes, modification of the physical and chemical properties of existing membranes, and coating with antifouling agents. For cathodes of MFC, use of Ag nanoparticles, Ag-based composite nanoparticles, and antifouling chemicals is outlined in considerable detail. Finally, prospective techniques for mitigation of biofouling are discussed, which have not been given much previous attention in the field of MFC research. This article will help to enhance understanding of the severity of biofouling issues in MFCs and provides up-to-date solutions. It will be beneficial for scientific communities for further strengthening MFC research and will also help in progressing this cutting-edge technology to scale-up, using the most efficient methods as described here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md T Noori
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kyung Hee University, Yongin-Si, Republic of Korea
| | - M M Ghangrekar
- Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, 721302, India
| | - C K Mukherjee
- Department of Agricultural and Food Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, 721302, India
| | - Booki Min
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kyung Hee University, Yongin-Si, Republic of Korea.
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Zhao Q, An J, Wang S, Wang C, Liu J, Li N. Heterotopic formaldehyde biodegradation through UV/H 2 O 2 system with biosynthetic H 2 O 2. WATER ENVIRONMENT RESEARCH : A RESEARCH PUBLICATION OF THE WATER ENVIRONMENT FEDERATION 2019; 91:598-605. [PMID: 30866122 DOI: 10.1002/wer.1070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2018] [Revised: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 02/03/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Biodegradation was regarded an environmentally benign and cost-effective technology for formaldehyde (CH2 O) removal. However, the biotoxicity of CH2 O inhibited microbial activity and decreased removal performance. We developed a novel heterotopic CH2 O biodegradation process that combined bioelectrochemical system (BES) and UV/H2 O2 . Instead of exogenous addition, H2 O2 was biosynthesized with electron transferred from electrochemically active bacteria. Heterotopic biodegradation of CH2 O was more efficient and faster than in situ biodegradation, as confirmed by 69%-308% higher removal efficiency and 98% shorter degradation time. Operated under optimal conditions for 30 min, which are optical distance of 2 cm, initial H2 O2 concentration of 102 mg/L, and pH 3, heterotopic biodegradation removed 78%, 73%, 49%, and 30% of CH2 O with 6, 8, 10, and 20 mg/L initial concentration. Mild formation of hydroxyl radicals from UV/H2 O2 is beneficial to sustainable CH2 O degradation and efficient H2 O2 utilization. Heterotopic biodegradation is a promising technology for efficient degradation of other organic compounds with biological toxicity. PRACTITIONER POINTS: H2 O2 biosynthesis through electrochemically active bacteria (EAB) served as source of ·OH for CH2 O removal in UV/H2 O2 . Heterotopic CH2 O biodegradation avoided the biotoxicity of CH2 O. Heterotopic biodegradation of CH2 O saved 98% time than in-situ biodegradation. Heterotopic CH2 O biodegradation improved 69%-308% efficiency than in-situ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Zhao
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jingkun An
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Shu Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Cong Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jia Liu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Nan Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
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Gajda I, Greenman J, Santoro C, Serov A, Atanassov P, Melhuish C, Ieropoulos IA. Multi-functional microbial fuel cells for power, treatment and electro-osmotic purification of urine. JOURNAL OF CHEMICAL TECHNOLOGY AND BIOTECHNOLOGY (OXFORD, OXFORDSHIRE : 1986) 2019; 94:2098-2106. [PMID: 31423040 PMCID: PMC6686702 DOI: 10.1002/jctb.5792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2018] [Revised: 07/26/2018] [Accepted: 07/31/2018] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In this work, a small-scale ceramic microbial fuel cell (MFC) with a novel type of metal-carbon-derived electrocatalyst containing iron and nicarbazin (Fe-NCB) was developed, to enhance electricity generation from neat human urine. Substrate oxidation at the anode provides energy for the separation of ions and recovery from urine without any chemical or external power additions. RESULTS The catalyst was shown to be effective in clear electrolyte synthesis of high pH, compared with a range of carbon-based metal-free materials. Polarisation curves of tested MFCs showed up to 53% improvement (44.8 W m-3) in performance with the use of Fe-NCB catalyst.Catholyte production rate and pH directly increased with power performance while the conductivity decreased showing visually clear extracted liquid in the best-performing MFCs. CONCLUSIONS Iron based catalyst Fe-NCB was shown to be a suitable electrocatalyst for the air-breathing cathode, improving power production from urine-fed MFCs. The results suggest electrochemical treatment through electro-osmotic drag while the electricity is produced and not consumed. Electro-osmotic production of clear catholyte is shown to extract water from urine against osmotic pressure. Recovering valuable resources from urine would help to transform energy intensive treatments to resource production, and will create opportunities for new technology development. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology & Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iwona Gajda
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics LaboratoryDepartment of Engineering Design and Mathematics, University of the West of EnglandBristolUK
| | - John Greenman
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics LaboratoryDepartment of Engineering Design and Mathematics, University of the West of EnglandBristolUK
- Department of Applied SciencesUniversity of the West of EnglandBristolUK
| | - Carlo Santoro
- Center for Micro‐Engineered Materials (CMEM), Department of Chemical and Biological EngineeringUniversity of New MexicoAlbuquerqueNMUSA
| | - Alexey Serov
- Center for Micro‐Engineered Materials (CMEM), Department of Chemical and Biological EngineeringUniversity of New MexicoAlbuquerqueNMUSA
| | - Plamen Atanassov
- Center for Micro‐Engineered Materials (CMEM), Department of Chemical and Biological EngineeringUniversity of New MexicoAlbuquerqueNMUSA
| | - Chris Melhuish
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics LaboratoryDepartment of Engineering Design and Mathematics, University of the West of EnglandBristolUK
| | - Ioannis A Ieropoulos
- Bristol BioEnergy Centre, Bristol Robotics LaboratoryDepartment of Engineering Design and Mathematics, University of the West of EnglandBristolUK
- Department of Applied SciencesUniversity of the West of EnglandBristolUK
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Yang W, Lu JE, Zhang Y, Peng Y, Mercado R, Li J, Zhu X, Chen S. Cobalt oxides nanoparticles supported on nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes as high-efficiency cathode catalysts for microbial fuel cells. INORG CHEM COMMUN 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.inoche.2019.04.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Ye W, Tang J, Wang Y, Cai X, Liu H, Lin J, Van der Bruggen B, Zhou S. Hierarchically structured carbon materials derived from lotus leaves as efficient electrocatalyst for microbial energy harvesting. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 666:865-874. [PMID: 30818210 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.02.300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2018] [Revised: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Developing a highly efficient, cost-effective, easily scalable and sustainable cathode for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is a crucial challenge in terms of future "green" energy conversion technologies, e.g., microbial fuel cells (MFCs). In this study, a natural and widely available lotus leaf with intrinsically hierarchical structure was employed to serve as the single precursor to prepare the catalyst applied as the MFC cathode. The hierarchically particle-coated bio‑carbon was self-constructed from the lotus leaf, which yielded a large specific surface area, highly porous structure and superhydrophobicity via facile pyrolysis coupling hydrothermal activation by ZnCl2/(NH4)2SO4. Electrochemical evaluation demonstrated that these natural leaf-derived carbons have an efficient ORR activity. Specifically, the HC-900 catalyst with hydrothermal activation achieved an onset potential of -0.015 V vs. Ag/AgCl, which was comparable to the commercial Pt/C catalyst (-0.010 V vs. Ag/AgCl) and was more efficient than the DC-900 catalyst through direct pyrolysis. Furthermore, the HC-900 catalyst achieved an outstanding ORR activity via a one-step and four-electron pathway, exhibiting a potential alternative to Pt/C as electrocatalyst in ORR, due to its better long-term durability and methanol resistance. Additionally, the HC-900 catalyst was applied as an effective electrocatalytic cathode in an MFC system with a maximum power density of 511.5 ± 25.6 mW⋅m-2, exhibiting a superior energy harvesting capacity to the Pt/C cathode.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenyuan Ye
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil Environmental Health and Regulation, College of Resources and Environment, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Jiahuan Tang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil Environmental Health and Regulation, College of Resources and Environment, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Yajun Wang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil Environmental Health and Regulation, College of Resources and Environment, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Xixi Cai
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil Environmental Health and Regulation, College of Resources and Environment, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Hongwei Liu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil Environmental Health and Regulation, College of Resources and Environment, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Jiuyang Lin
- Fujian Provincial Engineering Research Center for High-value Utilization Technology of Plant Resources, School of Environment and Resources, Qi Shan Campus, Fuzhou University, No. 2 Xueyuan Road, University Town, 350116 Fuzhou, Fujian, China.
| | - Bart Van der Bruggen
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering for Sustainable Systems (ProcESS), KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 200F, B-3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Shungui Zhou
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil Environmental Health and Regulation, College of Resources and Environment, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China.
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Sun H, Zhang Y, Wu S, Dong R, Angelidaki I. Innovative operation of microbial fuel cell-based biosensor for selective monitoring of acetate during anaerobic digestion. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 655:1439-1447. [PMID: 30577135 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.11.336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2018] [Revised: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Volatile fatty acids (VFAs) especially acetate concentration have been proved to be a sensitive and reliable indicator for many anaerobic processes such as anaerobic digestion (AD). Microbial fuel cells (MFC) have been demonstrated as a promising VFAs sensor due to simple reactor design and operating conditions among microbial electrochemical biosensors. However, the conventional MFC biosensors may fail to distinguish between VFAs and other organics as real digestates containing complex organics and microbes are fed into anode directly. In the present study, an MFC based biosensor was developed and operated in a smart way for selective acetate detection. In the biosensor, acetate ions contained in the AD sample was first fed into the cathode, and then acetic ion transferred through the membrane from the cathode to anode chamber where it was further used as the sole substrate by pre-enriched electroactive biofilm for the current generation. A linear correlation between the current density and acetate concentrations (0.5-20 mM) at varied reaction time (1-5 h) was established. Then, the interference from propionate, butyrate, isobutyrate, and glucose on the performance of the biosensor was evaluated. Furthermore, the influence of sample temperatures (37 and 55 °C) was also studied. Finally, the VFAs content in real AD effluent with this biosensor was measured. The results corresponded well with gas chromatographic measurements. This simple, and reliable biosensor could serve as a promising alternative method for acetate detection in the AD process or any other acetate-rich fluids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Sun
- College of Engineering, China Agricultural University, Key Laboratory for Clean Renewable Energy Utilization Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Beijing 100083, PR China; Department of Environmental Engineering, Building 113, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Yifeng Zhang
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Building 113, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Lyngby, Denmark.
| | - Shubiao Wu
- College of Engineering, China Agricultural University, Key Laboratory for Clean Renewable Energy Utilization Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Beijing 100083, PR China; Aarhus Institute of Advanced Studies, Aarhus University, Høegh-Guldbergs Gade 6B, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.
| | - Renjie Dong
- College of Engineering, China Agricultural University, Key Laboratory for Clean Renewable Energy Utilization Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Beijing 100083, PR China
| | - Irini Angelidaki
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Building 113, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Lyngby, Denmark
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An J, Li N, Wang S, Liao C, Zhou L, Li T, Wang X, Feng Y. A novel electro-coagulation-Fenton for energy efficient cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins removal without chemical addition. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2019; 365:650-658. [PMID: 30472450 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2018.11.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2018] [Revised: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Harmful cyanobacterial bloom is a serious threat to global aquatic ecology and drinking water safety. Electro-Fenton (EF) has emerged as an efficient process for cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins removal, but high consumption of energy and chemicals remain a major bottleneck. This study presents a novel convertible three-electrodes Electro-Coagulation-Fenton process for cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins removal with low energy consumption and no chemicals addition. We for the first time demonstrated the freely alternating between Electrocoagulation (EC) and EF by switching electrodes. The optimal aerated EC was operated at pH 8 and 100 mA to remove 91 ± 2% of cyanobaterial cells and 15% of Microcystins (MCs). Coagulants generated in EC were adsorbed on cyanobacterial cells to form a protect layer against algae disruption and cyanotoxins releasing. Residual MCs and cyanobaterial cells were completely mineralized by EF at 28 mA with iron ions and H2O2 generated in-situ. Compare to traditional EF, the optimal Electro-Coagulation-Fenton process increased total organic carbon (TOC) removal efficiency by 30%, yet energy consumption reduced up to 92%. The novel Electro-Coagulation-Fenton process is a promising technology for the efficient treatment of the mixture of suspended solid pollutants and persistent organic pollutants in one system with low energy consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingkun An
- Academy of Environment and Ecology, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Nan Li
- Academy of Environment and Ecology, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China.
| | - Shu Wang
- Academy of Environment and Ecology, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Chengmei Liao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Lean Zhou
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Tian Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Xin Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Yujie Feng
- Academy of Environment and Ecology, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, No. 73 Huanghe Road, Nangang District, Harbin, 150090, China.
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