A single chamber stackable microbial fuel cell with air cathode

Abstract

A single chamber stackable microbial fuel cell (SCS-MFC) comprising four MFC units was developed. When operated separately, each unit generated a volumetric power density (P(max,V)) of 26.2 W/m(3) at 5.8 mA or 475 mV. The total columbic efficiency was 40% for each unit. Parallel connection of four units produced the same level of power output (P(max,V) of 22.8 W/m(3) at 27 mA), which was approximately four times higher than a single unit alone. Series connection of four units, however, only generated a maximum power output of 14.7 W/m(3) at 730 mV, which was less than the expected value. This energy loss appeared to be caused by lateral current flow between two units, particularly in the middle of the system. The cathode was found to be the major limiting factor in our system. Compared to the stacked operation of multiple separate MFCs, our single chamber reactor does not require a delicate water distribution system and thus is more easily implemented in pre-existing wastewater treatment facilities with serpentine flow paths, such as fixed-bed reactors, with minimal infrastructure changes.