In collaboration with a researcher Khataee from Department of Materials Science and Nanotechnology Engineering, Near East University, a recent study has introduced a novel approach to enhance the efficiency of microbial fuel cells (MFCs) by simultaneously improving power generation and pollutant degradation. The study focuses on the development of photo/electrocatalysts, particularly utilizing a photo-assisted MFC technology with an Ag-2-methyl imidazole (mIm)/g-C3N4 photocathode to enhance the degradation efficiency of methylene blue (MB).
The research synthesized a series of composites comprising Ag-mIm framework and varying amounts of g-C3N4, culminating in the creation of Ag-mIm/0.01 g-C3N4 composite, which demonstrated strong visible light absorption. Characterization through UV-Vis DRS analysis revealed its potential as a promising photo-electrode material. Electrochemical analysis further confirmed the excellent photo/electrocatalytic activity of the Ag-mIm/0.01 g-C3N4 composite, particularly under light illumination conditions.
Moreover, the study conducted experiments using Ag-mIm/0.01 g-C3N4-modified cathodes in MFCs, leading to notable improvements in power density and current density, especially under light irradiation. The enhanced degradation of MB observed in the photo-assisted MFCs can be attributed to the synergistic effects of the photocathode and bioanode, which concurrently produce electrons as reducing agents and •OH as oxidation agents.
This research presents a promising avenue for the advancement of MFC technology in wastewater treatment by leveraging photo-assisted approaches and novel photo/electrocatalysts. The findings underscore the potential of integrating photo/electrocatalysts to enhance both power generation and pollutant degradation in MFCs, offering valuable insights for the development of more efficient and sustainable wastewater treatment technologies.
More Information:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0957582023009321
