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How to address the anode dilemma and explore future prospects of microbial fuel cells

Author

Listed:
  • Liu, Wei
  • Zhou, Yu
  • Yang, Tingrui
  • Xu, Xuelan
  • Lin, Jingjing
  • Zheng, Yingying
  • Guo, Mingxuan
  • Huang, Yuankai
  • Xie, Yinuo
  • Liu, Haiqing
  • Chen, Min
  • Huang, Wenqian
  • Kuang, Dai
  • Tian, Xinlong
  • Xia, Qianfeng

Abstract

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs), a type of bioelectrochemical energy technology that uses microorganisms to convert organic waste into electricity, have received widespread attention in recent years. In particular, the anode of MFC is not only the interface for electron transfer, but also a key component to enhance the overall performance. It has important significance for the practical application of MFC technology. However, research on MFC anodes faces numerous challenges, including sluggish interfacial kinetics, unstable biofilms, mass transfer losses, and high scale–up costs. This paper reviews recent advances in anode improvement and summarizes the mechanisms underlying performance enhancements achieved with advanced electrodes. Furthermore, material synthesis strategies, advanced characterization analysis, cross–scale numerical simulation, and a comprehensive evaluation system are proposed to address anode dilemma, providing valuable insights for the future development and application of MFCs.

Suggested Citation

  • Liu, Wei & Zhou, Yu & Yang, Tingrui & Xu, Xuelan & Lin, Jingjing & Zheng, Yingying & Guo, Mingxuan & Huang, Yuankai & Xie, Yinuo & Liu, Haiqing & Chen, Min & Huang, Wenqian & Kuang, Dai & Tian, Xinlon, 2026. "How to address the anode dilemma and explore future prospects of microbial fuel cells," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 231(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:rensus:v:231:y:2026:i:c:s1364032126000444
    DOI: 10.1016/j.rser.2026.116745
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