Migration of various ions based on pH shifts triggered by the application of sediment microbial fuel cells

Abstract

Sediment microbial fuel cells (SMFCs) represent a technology that can enhance sediment quality through processes such as nutrient suppression while simultaneously generating electricity from microorganisms. Despite its importance in elucidating the principles of nutrient suppression, the complex behavior of various ions within this context has been rarely explored. Herein, we applied an SMFC and systematically evaluated alterations in ion concentrations in interstitial and overlying waters. The SMFC deployment substantially decreased Na+ concentrations and increased Cl− levels in the interstitial water. This intriguing phenomenon was attributed to reactions driven by the electrodes. These reactions induced remarkable shifts in pH. Consequently, this pH shift triggered the leaching of heavy metals, particularly Fe, and decreased HCO3− concentrations within the interstitial water, thereby inducing the migration of other ions, including Na+ and Cl−, as compensation. Moreover, the PO43− concentration in interstitial water showed an increasing trend upon SMFC application, which contradicts the results of several previous reports. This increase was primarily attributed to the release of PO43−caused by the leaching of Fe salts, which was triggered by the pH shift. These findings provide new insights into sediment improvement research through SMFCs, enhancing our understanding of the fundamental principles and broadening the potential applications of this technology.