In a groundbreaking study published in the journal *Nature Scientific Reports*, researchers have demonstrated a novel approach to generating bioelectricity and producing value-added products using a photosynthetic microalgae-assisted microbial fuel cell (PMA-MFC). The research, led by Ankesh Ahirwar from the Diatom Nano Engineering and Metabolism Laboratory at Dr. Harisingh Gour Central University, explores the potential of microalgae to revolutionize wastewater treatment and energy production.
The study focused on the microalgae Haematococcus lacustris, which was integrated into a dual-chamber microbial fuel cell. The researchers compared the performance of two setups: one with replenished microalgal catholytic media (PMA-MFCt1) and another without replenishment (PMA-MFCt2). A control setup without microalgae (PMA0-MFC) was also used for comparison.
The results were striking. The PMA-MFCt1 setup, which had its microalgal catholytic media replenished, achieved a maximum power density of 33.76 mW m−2, significantly higher than the 15.36 mW m−2 observed in PMA-MFCt2 and the 8.05 mW m−2 in the control setup without microalgae. This disparity highlights the crucial role of microalgae in generating free nascent oxygen, which is essential for redox reactions in the fuel cell.
“Microalgae are not just a source of bioelectricity; they are a powerhouse of value-added products,” said Ankesh Ahirwar, the lead author of the study. “Our research demonstrates that by maintaining optimal conditions for microalgal growth, we can enhance both bioelectricity generation and the production of valuable bioproducts.”
The study also identified the dominance of Proteobacteria at the anode, indicating their role in catalytic processes. Additionally, the researchers quantified various carotenoids from the microalgae using UV-Vis and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis. The microalgal biomass, evaluated in terms of dry weight, was 118 mg L−1 after 40 days of operation in the PMA-MFCt1 setup, slightly less than the 123 mg L−1 observed in the control setup.
The continuous replenishment of media in the PMA-MFCt1 setup maintained the microalgal cells in a continuous state of multiplication and photosynthesis, resulting in higher bioelectricity generation and bioproducts compared to the other setups. This finding underscores the importance of nutrient management in optimizing the performance of microbial fuel cells.
The implications of this research are far-reaching for the energy sector. By integrating microalgae into microbial fuel cells, it is possible to simultaneously treat wastewater, generate bioelectricity, and produce valuable bioproducts. This multi-functional approach could significantly enhance the sustainability and economic viability of wastewater treatment processes.
As the world seeks innovative solutions to address energy challenges and environmental concerns, the work of Ankesh Ahirwar and his team offers a promising avenue for exploration. By harnessing the power of microalgae, we can move towards a more sustainable and efficient energy future.
The study, titled “Bioelectromics of a photosynthetic microalgae assisted microbial fuel cell for wastewater treatment and value added production,” was published in the journal *Nature Scientific Reports*, providing a robust foundation for future research and commercial applications in the field of bioenergy.