Effect of zeolite-coated anode on the performance of microbial fuel cells

BACKGROUNDFor a microbial fuel cell (MFC), the anode material plays a key part in power generation. Modification of conventional carbon-based anode materials is an effective strategy to improve MFC performance. RESULTSTwo different zeolites, namely, mobil catalytic materials number 41 (MCM-41) and NaX, were used to modify graphite felt anodes and compared with unmodified anodes in dual-chamber MFCs. Fourier transform infrared analysis verified that MCM-41 and NaX zeolites were successfully coated onto the bare graphite felt surface. Results showed that NaX zeolite is a favorable, affordable material for anode modification of MFCs. This zeolite improved MFC performance considerably. Its maximum power density (215.36.4mW m(-2)) and CE value (50.0%+/- 2.0%) were 152.1% and 36.2% higher than those of the unmodified anode, respectively. According to scanning electron microscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and the amount of anode biomass, the superhydrophilicity of the NaX zeolite-modified anode was a vital reason for thick anode biofilm formation and accelerated anodic bio-electrochemical reactions. The improved specific surface area of the anode and properties of the microporous NaX zeolite were responsible for the enhancement of MFC performance. CONCLUSIONS<p id="jctb4290-para-0003">Graphite felt anode modified by NaX zeolite resulted in improved power generation by a MFC. (c) 2013 Society of Chemical Industry