Revolutionizing microbial fuel cells: Biochar's energy conversion odyssey

• Main Authors: Javanmard, Arash, Zuki, Fathiah Mohamed, Patah, Muhamad Fazly Abdul, Daud, Wan Mohd Ashri Wan
• Format: Article
• Published: Elsevier 2024
• Subjects: TP Chemical technology
• Online Access: http://eprints.um.edu.my/45131/; https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psep.2024.04.066

Fuel cells are vital devices converting chemicals into electrical energy, with electrodes crucial for their efficiency. Biochar, a carbon-rich material from biomass, is gaining attention as an eco-friendly and cost-effective carbon source for fuel cell electrodes due to its high carbon content, large surface area, and chemical modifiability. This review focuses on microbial fuel cells (MFCs), emphasizing the significance of electrodes and membranes in their performance. It introduces biochar as a sustainable electrode material, discussing its compatibility with MFCs and various preparation techniques. The review covers biochar-based electrode efficiency, energy conversion mechanisms, and environmental sustainability. Challenges in integrating biochar into electrodes are addressed, with proposed solutions. By showcasing advancements and possibilities in this field, the review concludes with insights into biochar's future potential in MFC electrodes, emphasizing sustainability. It aims to provide a comprehensive overview of utilizing biochar for carbon-based electrodes in MFCs, with a focus on environmental impact.