Performance efficiency comparison of microbial electrolysis cells for sustainable production of biohydrogen—A comprehensive review

Abstract

Summary Microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) are one of the most promising innovation amongst bio‐electrochemical systems for biohydrogen production. A wide variety of wastewaters and organic wastes that is, sodium acetate, glucose, glycerol, domestic wastewater, sugar industries effluent, food processing wastewater, industrial wastewater, etc. can be utilized as substrates in MEC. The objective of this comprehensive review is to study the effects of reactor configuration, electrode materials, and substrates on the maximum hydrogen production rate (HPR) and columbic efficiency (CE) of the MEC system. The obtained results were summarized based on reactor configuration, substrate concentration, electrodes, applied voltage, HPR, and CE. Despite this significant progress, MEC technology still requires substantial developments to be recognized as a commercially viable technology. At the end of this review, the most promising future perspectives were also discussed which could be the appealing solutions for various problems associated with MEC technology. This review supports energy engineers and researchers to analyze the performance of various MECs for future assistance in research.

Influence of Nanomaterials and Other Factors on Biohydrogen Production Rates in Microbial Electrolysis Cells—A Review

“…There is one difference between them, which is that there is only a PEM in the formation of the double-chambered MEC. There are many shapes of MEC, such as H-shaped, cubic, tubular or cassette-like [ 18 ].…”

Synthesis of Sustainable Lignin Precursors for Hierarchical Porous Carbons and Their Efficient Performance in Energy Storage Applications

“…Recent decades have seen an increase in the consumption of fossil fuels, causing concerns about the possibility of a global energy crisis. The growth of the renewable energy sector, such as hydropower, wind, and solar energy, has gained considerable attention in recent years as a potential solution to global energy problems. − However, the intermittent nature of these energy resources calls for a method of efficient energy storage for later use. Current technological advancements require immediate action for the development of inexpensive, green, sustainable, and high-performing energy storage devices.…”

Coaxial microbial electrolysis cell for cost‐effective bioenergy production and wastewater treatment of potato industry effluent

“…Fortunately, microbial electrolysis cell (MEC) technology can tackle these issues by harnessing the power of microbes to generate bioenergy from organic waste, which can be utilized to power water treatment and desalination processes. MEC technology provides a viable, cost‐effective and sustainable solution to water scarcity in areas where access to electricity is limited and traditional water treatment methods are insufficient 7 . In addition, MEC technology presents a holistic approach to waste management by reducing the environmental burden of organic waste while generating electricity and facilitating clean water production.…”

“…MEC technology provides a viable, cost-effective and sustainable solution to water scarcity in areas where access to electricity is limited and traditional water treatment methods are insufficient. 7 In addition, MEC technology presents a holistic approach to waste management by reducing the environmental burden of organic waste while generating electricity and facilitating clean water production. Therefore, the application of MEC technology can significantly enhance environmental sustainability while concurrently addressing the pressing issue of water scarcity.…”