Microbial fuel cells (MFCs): A challenge for the removal of organic matter and electricity generation

The most important issues that affect the performance of a microbial fuel cell, such as its architecture, microbial function and the type of substrates are presented and discussed. In the last decade these bio-electrochemical systems have attracted the interest of many researchers, not only because of the global trend towards sustainable energy production, but also due to their simultaneous operation to degrade organic matter and bioremediation. These applications depend essentially on microbial metabolism whose knowledge is still limited, being necessary a better understanding of the complex microbial ecology. In developing countries it is important to investigate others sources of microorganisms and substrates with varied chemical composition which might be potential fuels in cells of different configuration. More intense research of these aspects will be essential to optimize and improve these processes.