Optimization of electrode material for bioelectricity production through microbial fuel cell

128-134Fuel cells are one of the most essential topics in research. Microbial fuel cell is a newest type of fuel cells that can generate electricity from renewable biomass by means of microorganisms as biocatalysts. There are diverse factors that can be considered in the development and improvement of MFC performance. Among effective parameters in Microbial Fuel Cells, substrate types and electrode composition play a crucial role in its performance. In this study, a dual chamber MFC is fabricated to check its dual function of bioelectricity production and simultaneously wastewater treatment. The present work is an experimented investigation concerned with selection of the best pair of electrodes. The various combinations of anode/cathode materials as copper, zinc, aluminium and carbon for Microbial Fuel Cells has been systematically studied and out of which Zn/C pair gave higher voltage output of 1.24±0.001 V and current of 3.28±0.012 mA with Gudiyari nala wastewater. Simultaneously, analysis of wastewater was also performed before and after the operation. Significant reduction in COD by 66.67 % with Gudiyari nala wastewater, indicated effective wastewater treatment in batch experiments. This work may help in the optimization of parameters for maximum production of bioelectricity to recompense the upcoming need of electricity as well as reduces the dependency of fossil fuels