Microbial fuel cells: A fast converging dynamic model for assessing system performance based on bioanode kinetics

Abstract

In this work, a dynamic computational model is developed for a single
\nchamber microbial fuel cell (MFC), consisting of a bio-catalyzed anode and
\nan air-cathode. Electron transfer from the biomass to the anode is assumed
\nto take place via intracellular mediators as they undergo transformation between
\nreduced and oxidized forms. A two-population model is used to describe
\nthe biofilm at the anode and the MFC current is calculated based on
\ncharge transfer and Ohm's law, while assuming a non-limiting cathode reaction
\nrate. The open circuit voltage and the internal resistance of the cell are
\nexpressed as a function of substrate concentration. The effect of operating
\nparameters such as the initial substrate (COD) concentration and external
\nresistance, on the Coulombic efficiency, COD removal rate and power density
\nof the MFC system is studied. Even with the simple formulation, model
\npredictions were found to be in agreement with observed trends in experimental studies. This model can be used as a convenient tool for performing
\ndetailed parametric analysis of a range of parameters and assist in process
\noptimization.