The Utilization of Bimetallic Fe-Co Metal Organic Framework as a Catalyst for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Microbial Fuel Cells Cathode

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) possess large surface area, high stability, and porous structure, making them suitable for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts in the cathode compartments of microbial fuel cells (MFCs). The examination of modified cathode electrodes is fundamental for accomplishing electrodes with high performance at low cost. Additionally, it is crucial to explore the impact of modified materials and methods on the electrode surface, as well as modifications in MOFs. In this study, for the first time the performance of the single and bimetallic Fe and Co with 1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylic acid (H3BTC) are evaluated as MFC cathode catalysts for ORR. Implementation assessments are accompanied by single metal-containing MOFs and iron-cobalt MOFs. These MOFs sonochemically synthesized are characterized by using XRD, SEM, and XPS techniques. The electrochemical properties of the MFCs are monitored by using electrochemical methods such as open circuit voltage (OCV), linear sweep voltammetry (LSV), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). According to results it is shown for the first time that the MFC with cathode modified with the Fe and Co containing bimetallic MOFs has the highest power density value when compared to cathodes with single metal containing MOFs. Hence, the bimetallic Fe-Co-BTC MOF containing cathode material is a promising candidate as an efficient and affordable ORR catalyst.