In a significant stride towards sustainable energy solutions, researchers have demonstrated the potential of *Chlorella* sp. microalgae biomass to generate electricity using microbial fuel cells (MFCs). This innovative approach, detailed in a study published in the journal *Bioengineering*, could pave the way for cleaner and more environmentally friendly energy sources, addressing the global energy demand projected for 2050.
The research, led by Rickelmi Agüero-Quiñones of the Escuela de Ingeniería Ambiental at Universidad César Vallejo in Peru, explored the use of *Chlorella* sp. biomass in single-chamber MFCs equipped with activated carbon and zinc electrodes. Over a 20-day operation period, the study achieved impressive results, including a maximum voltage of 1271 ± 2.52 mV and a power density of 247.514 mW/cm². These findings highlight the efficacy of *Chlorella* sp. in bioelectricity generation.
“Our study demonstrates the great potential of *Chlorella* sp. biomass for sustainable bioelectricity generation in MFCs,” Agüero-Quiñones stated. “The results are promising and suggest that microalgae could play a significant role in the future of renewable energy.”
The research also observed notable increases in cell density and absorbance, reaching average values of 2.2933 × 10⁷ ± 1.15 × 10⁶ cells/mL and 3.471 ± 0.195 absorbance units, respectively. The biomass maintained pH values between 7.32 ± 0.03 and 7.74 ± 0.02, with peaks of electrical conductivity and oxidation-reduction potential recorded at 2450 ± 17.1 µS/cm and 952 ± 20 mV, respectively.
Scanning electron microscopy revealed filamentous structures of the formed biofilm attached to carbon particles, while energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy identified the predominance of oxygen, carbon, silicon, aluminum, and iron on the anodes. These findings provide a deeper understanding of the bioelectrochemical processes involved in MFCs.
The implications of this research for the energy sector are substantial. As the world seeks to transition towards renewable and sustainable energy sources, the use of microalgae in MFCs offers a promising avenue for exploration. The commercial potential of this technology could be vast, particularly in industries looking to reduce their carbon footprint and adopt greener energy solutions.
“This study opens up new possibilities for the application of microalgae in energy production,” Agüero-Quiñones noted. “The commercial impacts could be significant, particularly in sectors aiming for sustainability and environmental responsibility.”
As the global energy landscape continues to evolve, innovations like those demonstrated in this research could shape the future of bioelectricity generation. The findings not only highlight the potential of *Chlorella* sp. but also underscore the importance of ongoing research and development in the field of microbial fuel cells. With further advancements, this technology could become a cornerstone of sustainable energy solutions, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable future.