In view of the increased consumption of energy due to the proliferation of electronic devices, this book addresses the trends, similarities, differences and advances in fuel cells of both chemical and biological composition. Fundamentals of microbial fuel cells are described, accompanied by details surrounding their uses and limitations. Chapters on electricigens, microbial group investigations and performance, Rumen Fluid microbes and state-of-the-art advances in microbial fuel cell technology are discussed. The book elaborates upon analytical techniques used for biofilm characterization. It also includes chapters on MFC models that include plant-based MFCs, Algal/Fungi MFCs, MDCs and MFCs using animal waste. A critical review on the performance of MFC technology in field trials is offered in an exclusively dedicated section. By addressing one of the most promising sources for clean and renewable energy, this book fills a pressing need to understand a possible solution for meeting the energy demands in our highly advanced technical world.
This book represents a novel attempt to describe microbial fuel cells (MFCs) as a renewable energy source derived from organic wastes. Bioelectricity is usually produced through MFCs in oxygen-deficient environments, where a series of microorganisms convert the complex wastes into electrons via liquefaction through a cascade of enzymes in a bioelectrochemical process. The book provides a detailed description of MFC technologies and their applications, along with the theories underlying the electron transfer mechanisms, the biochemistry and the microbiology involved, and the material characteristics of the anode, cathode and separator. It is intended for a broad audience, mainly undergraduates, postgraduates, energy researchers, scientists working in industry and at research organizations, energy specialists, policymakers, and anyone else interested in the latest developments concerning MFCs.
The rapid growth of global energy consumption and simultaneous waste discharge requires more sustainable energy production and waste disposal/recovery technology. In this respect, microbial fuel cell and bioelectrochemical systems have been highlighted to provide a platform for waste-to-energy and cost-efficient treatment. Microbial fuel cell technology has also contributed to both academia and industry through the development of breakthrough sustainable technologies, enabling cross- and multi-disciplinary approaches in microbiology, biotechnology, electrochemistry, and bioprocess engineering. To further spread these technologies and to help the implementation of microbial fuel cells, this Special Issue, entitled “Microbial Fuel Cells 2018”, was proposed for the international journal Energies. This Special Issue mainly covers original research and studies related to the above-mentioned topic, including, but not limited to, bioelectricity generation, microbial electrochemistry, useful resource recovery, system and process design, and the implementation of microbial fuel cells.
This book is the second in a two-volume set devoted to bioelectrochemical systems (BESs) and the opportunities that they may offer in providing a green solution to growing energy demands worldwide. While the first volume explains principles and processes, in this volume established research professionals shed light on how this technology can be used to generate high-value chemicals and energy using organic wastes. Bioelectricity is generated in microbial fuel cells (MFCs) under oxygen-depleted conditions, where microbial bioconversion reactions transform organic wastes into electrons. Dedicated chapters focus on MFCs and state of the art advancements as well as current limitations. In addition, the book covers the use of microbial biofilm- and algae-based bioelectrochemical systems for bioremediation and co-generation of valuable chemicals. A thorough review of the performance of this technology and its possible industrial applications is presented. The book is designed for a broad audience, including undergraduates, postgraduates, energy researchers/scientists, policymakers, and anyone else interested in the latest developments in this field.
Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are electrochemical devices that use metabolic activities of microorganisms to oxidize organic and inorganic matter and generate electricity. MFC technology is a multidisciplinary approach to the quest for alternate sources of energy. In recent years, MFC technology expressed itself as potential technology for simultaneous electricity generation and waste treatment. It is the purpose of this book to outline, in a concise but comprehensible manner, the fundamentals and development of MFCs and their application as wastewater treatment device. This Book comprises six parts: Chapter 1 contains Introduction and aim of present work. Chapter 2 deals with the critical analysis of MFC research in past and future possibilities. Chapter 3 discloses major methodology used, while Chapter 4 shows the detailed results. Chapter 5 contains conclusion and Chapter 6 is conclusion of present research. As this book is based on results of MFC research, in writing it, the author has drawn about all aspects of MFCs to understand MFCs from every point of view. This book will be beneficial for students, researchers and teachers working on wastewater treatment and bioelectricity.
This book comprehensively reviews the key topics in microbial fuel cells (MFC) and its applications in areas related to energy and environmental mitigation. It covers the microbial electrochemistry and the generation of electricity from waste, various synthesis and characterization approaches of polymer-based MFC electrodes, the multifunctional properties of a MFC which allows its simultaneous use as a fuel cell, bioremediation and biosensor device. It provides new direction to the readers to better understand the chemistry in MFC and methods to improve their desired properties. This book is a very valuable reference source for graduates and postgraduates, engineers and research scholars in the areas related to fuel cells electrochemistry and pollution mitigation.
This book addresses a range of solutions and effective control techniques for Microbial Fuel Cells (MFCs), intended as a response to the increased energy consumption and wastewater production stemming from globalization. It describes the fundamentals of MFCs and control-oriented mathematical models, and provides detailed information on uncertain parameters. Various control techniques like robust control with LMI, adaptive backstepping control, and exact linearization control are developed for different mathematical models. In turn, the book elaborates on the basics of adaptive control, presenting several methods in detail. It also demonstrates how MFCs can be developed at the laboratory level, equipping readers to develop their own MFCs for experimental purposes. In closing, it develops a transfer function model for MFCs by combining a system identification technique and model reference adaptive control techniques. By addressing one of the most promising sources of clean and renewable energy, this book provides a viable solution for meeting the world’s increasing energy demands.
Bioprospecting of Microbial Diversity: Challenges and Applications in Biochemical Industry, Agriculture and Environment Protection gives a detailed insight into the utilization of microorganisms or microorganism-based bioactive compounds for the development of sustainable approaches, covering recent advances and challenges in the production and recovery of bioactive compounds such as enzymes, biopesticides, biofertilizers, biosensors, therapeutics, nutraceutical and pharmaceutical products. The challenges associated with the different approaches of microbial bioprospecting along with possible solutions to overcome these limitations are addressed. Further, the application of microbe-based products in the area of environmental pollution control and developing greener technologies are discussed. Providing valuable insight into the basics of microbial prospecting, the book covers established knowledge as well as genomic-based technological advancements to offer a better understanding of its application to various industries, promoting the commercialization of microbial-derived bioactive compounds and their application in biochemical industries, agriculture, and environmental protection studies. Describes the advanced techniques available for microbial bioprospecting for large-scale industrial production of bioactive compounds Presents recent advances and challenges for the application of microbe-based products in agriculture and environment pollution control Provides knowledge of microbial production of bioenergy and high-value compounds such as nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals
This book focuses on value addition to various waste streams, which include industrial waste, agricultural waste, and municipal solid and liquid waste. It addresses the utilization of waste to generate valuable products such as electricity, fuel, fertilizers, and chemicals, while placing special emphasis on environmental concerns and presenting a multidisciplinary approach for handling waste. Including chapters authored by prominent national and international experts, the book will be of interest to researchers, professionals and policymakers alike.
Microbial fuel cells are very promising as renewable energy sources. They are based on the direct conversion of organic or inorganic materials to electricity by utilizing microorganisms as catalysts. These cells are well suited for applications that require only low power, e.g. ultracapacitors, toys, electronic gadgets, meteorological buoys, remote sensors, digital wristwatches, smartphones and hardware in space and robots. In addition to electricity generation, microbial fuel cells can be used for wastewater treatment, desalination and biofuel production. The book addresses characterization techniques and operating conditions of microbial fuel cells, as well as the usefulness of various types of anode and cathode materials.
Our Earth is considered as a natural system which organizes and controls itself. However, the present scale of anthropogenic activity is unprecedented in the history of mankind compelling the intelligentia to ponder over the scientific causes of the problems, processes and sustainable and pragmatic solutions. The current rate of resource use and consumption pattern are depleting the planet’s finite resources and damaging life-supporting ecosystems. A large number of toxic substances are increasingly found in air, water, soil, and flora and fauna. We are in the midst of a period of increasing interconnected and complex global challenges that seek action across temporal and spatial scales, diverse sectors, and concerted efforts from global citizens. The environment on account of human’s action has been experiencing imbalances and ecological catastrophe. Environmental issues like global climate change, biodiversity loss, the rapid depletion of natural resources, degradation of global commons, stratospheric ozone depletion have been restricting the safe operating space and transgressing the planetary boundaries endangering the existence of human societies. The global environmental problems if not scientifically managed may end up in the civilizational collapse. Nevertheless, the underlying commonality among these environmental issues is interrelatedness, complexity, and difficulty in identifying and implementing solutions. The global environmental challenges can be managed by adopting sustainable green technologies which dovetails the principles of environmental sustainability with social and ecological sustainability. Green growth is construed as a new development paradigm that sustains economic growth while at the same time ensuring environmental sustainability.
Renewable Electricity and Sustainability: Prospects in Developing Economies is the first book of its kind to be dedicated entirely to the needs of emerging economies. It provides readers with a comprehensive review of current renewable energy technologies, their status in emerging economies, and the potential for sustainable renewable electricity generation in those countries. A multidisciplinary approach is used to assess the needs and challenges of each region, which is supported by quantitative analyses of the current and future potential for renewable electricity generation. Real-world examples are also provided from the respective electricity sectors of each region. This resource is a unique reference for graduates and researchers on the social, technical and economic landscape of renewable energy in emerging economies and would also be useful to NGO’s and policymakers in developing countries or those working in sustainable development. Focuses specifically on the renewable energy and sustainability needs of developing economies Explores the renewable energy potential of developing countries and how this can be converted to sustainable electricity generation, supported by quantitative analyses and real-world case studies Addresses energy efficiency, energy management and the socioeconomic aspects of renewable electricity generation in developing countries, in addition to each renewable energy resource
