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A Rhus typhina biochar-reduced graphene oxide composite anode for enhanced chromium(VI) removal and energy recovery in microbial fuel cells

Author

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  • Li, Sibo
  • Zhang, Zhiping
  • Liu, Lunrong
  • Yin, Chengri
  • Yin, Zhenxing

Abstract

Chromium (Cr) pollution is harmful to the environment and human health. Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) provide a viable solution to chromium pollution, simultaneously treating chromium-containing wastewater and enabling energy recovery. However, the development of high-performance anode materials is one of the biggest challenges in the practical application of MFC technology. In this study, a Rhus typhina biochar-reduced graphene oxide (Rt/rGO) composite was prepared via a one-step carbonization method. The Rt/rGO anode enhances the electron transfer efficiency by providing a stable and sufficient supply of electrons for the continuous reduction of hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) at the cathode. The maximum power density of MFC with Rt/rGO2 anode is 7.98 W m−2, which is attributed to its characteristic three-dimensional (3D) structure that provides an optimal interfacial environment for microbial colonization and biofilm formation. Under acidic conditions (pH 1.0), 20 mg L−1 Cr(VI) is completely removed within 5 h, concurrent with the MFC achieving a peak power density of 19.36 W m−2. The results highlight the potential of Rt/rGO2 composites in MFC, providing a new approach for the green treatment of wastewater contaminated with Cr(VI) and energy recovery.

Suggested Citation

  • Li, Sibo & Zhang, Zhiping & Liu, Lunrong & Yin, Chengri & Yin, Zhenxing, 2026. "A Rhus typhina biochar-reduced graphene oxide composite anode for enhanced chromium(VI) removal and energy recovery in microbial fuel cells," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 270(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:270:y:2026:i:c:s0960148126007317
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2026.125905
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