Microbial generation of H(2) or CH(4) coupled to wastewater treatment in bioelectrochemical systems

Microbial biocathodes can be employed to produce reduced value-added compounds, such as Pi2 or CH4 in bioelectrochemical systems (BES). Here we show that selected anaerobic microbial cultures are capable of catalyzing H2 or CH4 production by using a carbon electrode as electron donor via direct or indirect extracellular electron transfer mechanisms. The potential of biocathodes for gaseous biofuels production coupled to wastewater treatment in BES is discussed. Copyright © 2010, AIDIC Servizi S.r.l