A state of the art review on electron transfer mechanisms, characteristics, applications and recent advancements in microbial fuel cells technology

Abstract

The increase in the industrial revolution, urbanization, and deficit in crude oil resources urged scientists to look for sustainable and renewable energy resources. Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are bio-electrochemical devices that convert the chemical energy of bio mass into electrical energy utilizing microorganisms as biocatalysts. MFC is an enthralling technology, and it has many important applications. There are different designs of MFC currently in use, each having their pros and cons; however, the stacked MFC is so far generating the highest power output. Different factors, discussed in this review, contribute toward the efficiency of the process. An ample amount of research has been done to convert the theoretical framework of MFC into a practical application; however, the later still remains a big challenge. A plethora of technical problems is in the way for MFC to be driven toward up-scaling and real-world applications. This review discusses electron transfer mechanisms in MFCs and important factors affecting the performance of MFC. Reactor design is a main limiting factor in MFC technology, and this review also focuses on recent improvements in reactor designs and modifications. Moreover, some main applications of MFC technology, limitations, recent advancements, and future prospects are discussed.