Green Energy and Wastewater Treatment Using Single-chamber Microbial Fuel Cells

A collaborative partner of Thames Water has emphasized the crucial necessity of modernizing London's outdated sewer system to stop the release of untreated sewage into the river Thames and its waterways. This challenge aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which strive to improve health and well-being, ensure access to clean water and sanitation for everyone, promote sustainable energy, foster innovation, and safeguard aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. The pressing matter at hand is not merely environmental but also a concern for public health and sustainability, highlighting the need for innovative solutions to manage wastewater efficiently and sustainably. 

One such innovative solution is the use of SCMFCs, a technology that represents the intersection of environmental sustainability and technological innovation. MFCs are devices that convert organic waste directly into electrical energy through the action of bacteria. This process not only treats wastewater but also produces clean energy. As illustrated in Figure 1, the operation of SCMFCs unfolds through four biological stages: the lag phase, where bacteria adjust to their environment; the exponential phase, marked by rapid bacterial growth and enhanced electricity production; the stationary phase, where growth stabilizes and electricity generation is optimized; and finally, the death phase, which sees a decline in microbial activity and necessitates the introduction of fresh substrates. This is further topped up with fresh substrate for four to six months, which yields enough data for publications.